Fresh Chelsea controversy as Hazard kicks ball boy

CHELSEA’S season was hit by yet another high-profile controversy after midfielder Eden Hazard was sent off for kicking a ball boy at Swansea.

The incident overshadowed the goalless draw in the second leg of the Capital One Cup semi-final at the Liberty Stadium, which saw Swansea progress to the first major final in their history thanks to a 2-0 aggregate win.

It happened 10 minutes from time when Hazard lost patience as the ball boy, understood to be Charlie Morgan – son of Swansea director Martin – refused to hand over the ball after it had gone out of play for a goal-kick.

The ball boy fell to the ground as Hazard attempted to get the ball from him.

The Blues player tried to kick it from under him but appeared to make contact with the prostrate youngster.

Several Chelsea players went to tend to the ball boy, who was left holding his ribs, before referee Chris Foy produced a red card.

The ball boy was then led away down the tunnel, but is unhurt.

Hazard will not face police action over the incident after 17-year-old Morgan and his father elected not to press charges.

But the Belgian will face an anxious wait to see what punishment the FA may choose to add on top of his automatic three-match ban.