(Reuters) – Belgium’s all-time top scorer Romelu Lukaku is set to make a return to action when they take on England in a friendly match at Wembley on Tuesday. Lukaku missed the recent goalless draw against Ireland due to a groin injury, but has since recovered and resumed full training, as confirmed by manager Domenico Tedesco.
Tedesco mentioned, “Lukaku is ready to start,” while also mentioning that goalkeeper Koen Casteels will remain sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Lukaku’s impressive record of 83 goals in 113 international appearances surpasses that of any other Belgian player, including Eden Hazard, and his experience will be crucial in the absence of injured midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.
“We need to be more proactive in attack compared to the match against Ireland. We have to play with courage, focusing on attacking football,” Tedesco emphasized. He also highlighted that facing England presents an opportunity to test themselves against strong opposition, despite the absence of some key players.
Since taking over from Roberto Martinez following Belgium’s disappointing World Cup campaign in Qatar, Tedesco has yet to suffer a defeat in his 11 games in charge. Although the goalless draw against Ireland was a setback, Lukaku’s return will provide a much-needed attacking threat that was missing in the previous match.
Belgian winger Jeremy Doku, who plies his trade for Manchester City, expressed his excitement for the upcoming match against England. He acknowledged the lackluster performance against Ireland and believes facing England will be a different challenge, offering an opportunity to gauge their readiness for the upcoming Euro 2024 finals.
“It’s going to be an exciting game. Our performance in Ireland was below par, but I’m confident that we will show a different side against England. This match will also help us assess our current level and make the necessary adjustments ahead of the European Championship,” Doku stated.
In their recent encounters, Belgium has emerged victorious in three of their last four matches against England. However, they have struggled to secure a win in their previous five visits to London. Despite this, Tedesco’s unbeaten record so far and the return of Lukaku provide hope for a positive outcome in the upcoming clash at Wembley.
(Reporting by Nick Said; Editing by Ken Ferris)
