Roberto Martinez will have to puzzle for Wednesday’s game against Belarus. Jan Vertonghen and Romelu Lukaku are missing anyway due to a suspension after their yellow cards against the Czech Republic.
And Thomas Meunier and Thibaut Courtois also do not travel to Kazan (Russia), where the match will be played. “Thomas Meunier we are not going to do such a long flight,” Martinez said after the victory (3-0) against the Czech Republic.
“We play three games in seven days so we have to see that everyone stays fit and fresh.” Meunier is not yet match fit after being infected with the corona virus. Thibaut Courtois, who has some problems with his Achilles tendon, also skips the game. They all return to their club.
Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku and Dries Mertens also dropped out injured for the international matches in Belgium. Thomas Vermaelen (remained in Japan) and Simon Mignolet (rest after his injury at the European Championship) are also not there.
Thibaut Courtois had already indicated at the press conference that he would be missing against Belarus. “Whether I go to Russia? We still have to discuss that with the coach,” said Courtois.
“I always feel like playing for the Devils, but of course it’s a long journey and after that there are also important matches with Real Madrid.”
“Maybe I can use a joker after my game tonight. It’s also a great opportunity for another goalkeeper to play.” That would be an opportunity for Koen Casteels, Matz Sels or Thomas Kaminski, because Simon Mignolet has stayed in Bruges.
Courtois was very important for the Red Devils against the Czech Republic with important saves. “It’s always nice to be important to the team. We had to put in a good match against a strong opponent and we did that. This is an important victory.”
