Rafa reveals Hazard had meeting with Swansea ball-boy after red card shame

Wednesday, January 23, 2013
11:05 PM

Chelsea Rafael Benitez said that Eden Hazard and the Swansea ball-boy he appeared to kick had exchanged apologies in the dressing room after the match.

The Belgian international was sent off ten minutes from time as the Blues drew 0-0 at the Liberty Stadium, crashing out of the Capital One Cup semi-final 2-0 on aggregate.

The midfielder was trying to get the ball back from the youngster as he delayed returning it, but appeared to kick him and referee Chris Foy had no choice but to dismiss him.

“They apologised to each other,” Benitez said afterwards.

“They both talked. The boy knows he was wasting time. Hazard was frustrated and trying to get the ball back.

“We can not change the situation. We are disappointed because we lost a player.

“The best thing for us is to move forward.”

Speaking about the match, Benitez added: “Again I will say we have to manage the game.

“They managed the game better and they are in the final.”