Di Matteo: Hazard showed all his qualities

Last updated : 19 August 2012 By Paul Lagan

Quietly-spoken Roberto Di Matteo can take delight to have taken all three points from this season's opening game at Wigan Athletic.

Goals from Branislav Ivanovic and a trademark Frank Lampard penalty sealed the victory within the first six minutes of the game.

Chelsea did not have matters all their own way as Di Matteo conceded afterwards.

"I'm very pleased with the performance and result," said the former Chelsea midfielder.

"It is always difficult in the opening game of the season.

"Last year we drew here and had a very tough match at Stamford Bridge against Wigan.

"But the two early goals settled our nerves."Star of the show was the Blues' Eden Hazard.

Di Matteo was equally enthusiastic about his £23m midfielder.

"Eden showed all his qualities," said Di Matteo.He combined well with his teammates  and was always a threat.

"He has great technique and pace. He 's difficult to mark, but I don't think teams will try to foul him deliberately ( Hazard was the most fouled player in French Ligue 1 last season with 57) - it's just his game.

Hazard was replaced on 64 minutes for Brazil midfielder Oscar. But Di Matteo was not  concerned about the loss of midfield creativity: "I brought on another guy, who is a bit special (Oscar)," said Di Matteo smirking.

Victor Moses, a £10m target for the Blues had a fine game for Wigan, but Di Matteo would not be drawn on a possible transfer to SW6.

"It's not for me to talk about (Moses)," said the Italian."But I am happy with the squad I have."

Returning to the game, Di Matteo was on happier ground talking about Wigan."They never gave up, but we nearly scored a third goal to seal the game.

"But we were very comfortable, they did not give us many problems."