On the day of their World Cup qualifier against Cyprus, the big topic of conversation in the local media and in the squad remains Belgium’s performance against Spain, in a friendly, in Roberto Martinez’s first game in charge.
Of course, a disappointing performance is always, well, disappointing, but with a new game just around the corner, focusing on the World Cup qualifier would make the most sense.
He said: “We were absent against Spain. We can’t do that again in our next games. I know all about booing, I’ve known that at Chelsea, but it’s disturbing to hear that with the Red Devils because we’ve done good things over the past few years. It’s like the fans have forgotten all about that… It’s a shame”.
The Chelsea star also made it clear the player’s hunger was still there, but a change of manager is always a complicated situation, especially when it comes to international teams when the coaching staff have limited time with their players.
He said: “The 25 players are ready to give it their all! Everyone is proud to wear the Belgian shirt, it’s important for everyone. We took two slaps (against Spain), and no one likes getting slapped.”
Cyprus is a different kettle of fish to Spain, and you’d fully expect Belgium to win comfortably, and with more time under his belt to get his ideas across, perhaps Roberto Martinez’s philosophy will start to appear.
At least you’d hope so.
