^ Hopefully throughout games we will see them swap/switch roles. Keep the defense on their toes and we can get the best out of both.
From what i've seen, Hazard seems to have a better first burst than Mata - but both are capable to playing both roles.
I want to start with a W, unlike last year's Draw, but I think Wigan is going to put up one helluva fight and will pull the upset if we don't maximize our chances in front of goal. Can't hit the posts and sky sitters.
Hazard on the left could well be a waste. Bertrand on the left with Hazard central for me, Mata on a rare rest, on the bench with Piazon.
I dont see how Hazard on the left is waste, he is obviously experienced and capable there, much more so than Bertrand, who is a fullback.
Hazard will remain quiet for a large part of the game. I think like Mata he will be devastating in a no 10 role behind the CF. Hazard has this ability to make even average players look brilliant if he's given the task of a creative role.
Hazard plays better coming inside from the left wing, that's the position he played here in the french league last season and had his best season, and he's even said he prefers that position. Mata on the other hand plays much better centrally or from the right, and he also doesn't like playing from the left. So imo it works out well for both of them.
CechIvanovic--David Luiz--Terry--ColeMikel--LampardSturridge--Mata--HazardTorres Bench: Turnbull, Cahill, Essien, Meireles, Malouda, Bertrand, Oscar Assuming Ramires is out.
"Here is how we line-up against Wigan Athletic: Cech; Ivanovic, David Luiz, Terry (c), Cole; Lampard, Mikel; Hazard, Mata, Bertrand; Torres Subs: Turnbull, Cahill, Ferreira, Essien, Meireles, Oscar, Sturridge"
Team v Wigan: Cech; Ivanovic, David Luiz, Terry ©, Cole; Lampard, Mikel; Hazard, Mata, Bertrand; Torres.
Our very own Gareth Bale. But hey, what's the point in buying three left wingers if you can't then play a left-back there? Haha MOAR OSCAR