Jose Mourinho reckons Chelsea's title challenge is bringing out the best in his squad – especially Eden Hazard.

The Blues briefly went top of the Premier League after Eden Hazard's opener paved the way for a 2-0 win at Hull City on Saturday.

Boss Mourinho insists he has seen an 'evolution' in Hazard's game which has seen him go from among the worst trainers to key player attracting interest from the likes of Paris St Germain.

Mourinho said: “Eden has made progress in everything. He was known as one of the worst trainers. He was always having a joke, he's a funny kid, but not the concentration. He was known for his quality, but not very effective in terms of production or whatever the defensive culture was, how to defend as a team.

“Now it's completely different. I wouldn't say he has become the best, but he has become a good professional in training. He has improved in every aspect. He is working very hard and trying very hard to be an influence in our games, learning the responsibility of being a top player.

“There is real pressure on him – to be where he is at the age of 23 – but I don't expect him to be the match winner in every game. He is very strong physically, has fantastic stamina and a great change of speed, and knows which areas he has to cover.

“There has been a evolution in his game. When you are at a club challenging for the title it brings out a different person. If you are 20 points behind Arsenal and score three goals it means nothing. The players are all growing with that pressure.”