Eden Hazard has come to the defence of Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens following a costly error in Belgium's World Cup quarter-final defeat to Spain. The Chelsea legend insisted the criticism aimed at Lammens is unwarranted.
Costly mistake ends Belgium's World Cup run
Belgium's quarter-final clash against European champions Spain appeared destined for extra time after Charles De Ketelaere cancelled out Fabian Ruiz's opener. However, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino scored a late winner after Lammens spilled Pau Cubarsi's 25-yard strike into his path.
Lammens, 24, had only entered the match after Belgium legend Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury. The Manchester United No. 1 faced significant backlash following the defeat.
Hazard: 'Senne is a great goalkeeper'
Hazard, one of Belgium's greatest ever players, told Stake: 'Senne is a great goalkeeper, he really is. He's already proved that at club level and I'm sure he'll prove it with the Red Devils soon enough. People shouldn't be too hard on him. He had to come on in a quarter-final and replace Thibaut Courtois… the best goalkeeper in the world. That's tough on anyone, but I'm sure he'll bounce back and come out even stronger.'
Discussing Belgium's overall campaign, Hazard added: 'I often saw that people didn't really believe in us, but I think we showed that you shouldn't underestimate Belgium. They gave us some really great moments. I was proud to see the fans across the whole country backing the team.'
Courtois consoles Lammens
Real Madrid's Courtois also offered support to Lammens, saying: 'It is a shame that Senne just couldn't catch that ball, but that's football. Mike [Penders], Guy [Martens] and I went to give him a hug. You can't say much at that moment. It's just a sham, but Senne is an excellent goalkeeper. He has a bright future ahead of him, and moments like that make you stronger. It shouldn't be blamed on him. It's part of football.'
Lammens' impressive season at Manchester United
Lammens enjoyed a strong first season at Manchester United following his £18m move from Royal Antwerp last summer, helping the Red Devils qualify for the Champions League. The 24-year-old even received special praise from Old Trafford legend Sir Alex Ferguson, who described Lammens' start at United as 'outstanding'.
Manchester United face Championship side Wrexham in their first pre-season friendly on Saturday ahead of their Premier League opener against Hull on August 22.
