Loaned out to Derby during the second half of last season, Julien de Sart’s development away from Middlesbrough will continue next season, with the Belgian defensive midfielder returning to his home country on loan with Zulte Waregem.
Not guaranteed to get regular first-team football under Garry Monk at Riverside, the 22-year-old, speaking to DH in Belgium, learnt of the Jupiler Pro League side’s interest before the former Leeds manager took over, and decided that was the move for him regardless.
While he only made 14 appearances during his brief first stint in England, the midfielder really isn’t that bothered, explaining he learnt a lot, as 14 games over here are worth ’50, maybe 60 in Belgium’.
As for what he will take away from his time in England: “Not the food (laughs). The intensity. It’s really what shocks everyone who arrives in England. I learnt to deal with it, but when you’re in a good moment, it really is 100%.”
Hoping to use everything he learnt at Middlesbrough and even Derby to show that he’s an even better player than when he left, De Sart is looking forward to use his new bulk against Belgians footballers in the Jupiler Pro League.
Best of luck to him.
