Eden Hazard has pulled out of the Belgium squad to face Greece and Russia with a calf injury.

The Chelsea winger missed his side's Premier League win over Stoke City at the weekend after picking up the injury in training last week.

Although the injury is considered minor, Antonio Conte and the Chelsea medical staff do not want to take any risks with the season reaching a crucial stage.

Eden Hazard has pulled out of the Belgium squad to face Greece and Russia with a calf injury

Antonio Conte confirmed after his side's win at Stoke that Hazard had felt the knock in training

Hazard, 26, has been outstanding for Chelsea in their surge towards the Premier League title and an FA Cup semi final place. Conte is keen for him to rest properly in the hope he will be in contention for the league return against Crystal Palace on April 1.

Belgium are due to play Greece in a World Cup qualifier and a friendly against Russia.

After the win at Stoke, Conte opened up on Hazard's injury, he said: 'Hazard in the last training felt a bit of a problem in his calf and for this reason I preferred not to risk him.'

The Italian is hopeful that the Belgian will be fit in time for the clash with Crystal Palace

Season at a glance Live tables

Fixtures

Scores Premier League

Premier League

Championship

League One

League Two

Scottish Premiership

Scottish Div 1

Scottish Div 2

Scottish Div 3

Ligue 1

Serie A

La Liga

Bundesliga





Team-mate Pedro is hoping that Hazard is not out long term. The Spanish star sung Hazard's praises in his absence at the bet365 Stadium.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Pedro said of Hazard: 'When he plays well, the team plays well

'He is the best player here. He is a star, a different player, good dribbling skills and he always makes the difference in the games.

'He is probably the best player in the team.'