CHERRIES full-back Brad Smith revealed Real Madrid star Eden Hazard had been the toughest player he had come up against throughout his career.

The Australia international featured against Hazard for both Liverpool and Cherries, when the latter was at Chelsea in the Premier League.

Currently on loan at Cardiff having joined the Bluebirds in January, Smith said it was “great to play against” the Belgian playmaker.

Asked who was his toughest opponent on Instagram, Smith replied: “Would have to be Eden Hazard.

“He’s obviously no longer in the Premier League anymore but he’s a very talented player.

“I was only 19 at the time (with Liverpool) at Chelsea away but he was great to play against, but he was definitely the toughest.”

Penrith-born Smith signed for Cherries from Liverpool in July 2016 and has made 11 senior appearances in all competitions.

He also revealed a former team-mate at Anfield was the best player he had played with.

“The best player I have ever played with would have to be Philippe Coutinho,” he added.

“He’s very talented on the ball and an amazing player. In training he would never ever give the ball away.”