Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has warned his Premier League rivals that Eden Hazard will be "stronger" this season.

The Belgium international was the Blues' standout player in last season's Premier League-winning campaign as he went on to be named Player of the Year.

While Mourinho believes that Hazard needs to improve in the Champions League, the Portuguese coach has been full of praise for his player ahead of the new campaign in August.

"He's getting stronger and stronger, not just in his body, but in his attitude," The Express quotes Mourinho as saying. "He's mentally tough. He's not the kind of boy who overreacts.

"After a bad tackle he never rolls and rolls like other players do. He doesn't try and push referees to make certain decisions - Eden is not this guy. He's loyal and honest, and gets lots of respect from opponents because of that."

Chelsea will begin the defence of their league title with a clash against Swansea City at Stamford Bridge on August 8.