Happiness as Chelsea man returns to international scene – Should be one of the ‘pioneers’

Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia returning to the Belgium squad should be celebrated as he can be one of the ‘pioneers’ under Domenico Tedesco.

That’s according to analyst Peter Vandenbempt, via Voetbal Primeur, who is pleased to see the Chelsea man back in the reckoning for his nation.

Lavia was included in Tedesco’s squad for the international break this week, with Belgium taking on Italy and Israel in the Nations League.

It puts the 20-year-old in line for his first appearance for his country since making his debut more than a year ago in the 3-2 win over Germany.

Injury problems have kept him out of the picture for Chelsea and Belgium since that point, but he’s bounced back at the start of this season and is now a firm fixture in Enzo Maresca’s plans, albeit playing a back up role as he builds his fitness.

That’s not stopped Tedesco from calling him up for this break as he looks to turn around a negative run of results that’s seen the pressure growing on him.

Vandenbempt is certainly happy to see the Chelsea man return and sung his praises in comments to Sporza.

“He was there in the very first match under Domenico Tedesco in the spring of 2023,” he said.

“Lavia is one of the greatest talents at the Red Devils. He is now doing great in the Premier League at Chelsea.

“In principle, he should become one of the driving players and pioneers in midfield for the Red Devils in the coming years. So, we are definitely looking forward to what he can bring. I assume we can watch him for part of the match or maybe even the two matches.”