Belgium 9-0 San Marino: 5 Talking Points | Euro 2020 Qualifiers

#3 Youri Tielemans making his presence felt

Tielemans netted one, created another and worked tirelessly during a memorable display here

Most of the focus has centred around his midfield teammate James Maddison this term at Leicester, but Tielemans has quietly been doing his bit for club and country to start 2019/20.

On this occasion he delivered one of his best international performances to date and it's no coincidence he's done so at a crucial juncture in Roberto Martinez's selection plans ahead of the new year. Last summer's World Cup proved a forgettable tournament for the 22-year-old, who was largely on the periphery in pivotal fixtures despite encouraging group stage flashes when unleashed.

Marouane Fellaini's NT retirement and Mousa Dembélé seemingly joining him frees up space for further midfield options. While Axel Witsel has impressed at Dortmund, creator-in-chief Kevin de Bruyne has not shaken off persistent injuries and missed this international break, Tielemans ensured his presence was felt in midfield here.

He stepped up in the City man's absence with a goal and assist, during a rout where Youri was arguably Belgium's best player and the statistics prove it: 116 touches, 91.5% pass accuracy, two key passes, eight duels won with seven tackles.

San Marino afforded a player of his quality far too much time and space in possession, he was frequently making himself available and looked to hurt them on both ends of the pitch where possible, refusing to relent despite the heavy scoreline.

If his teammates had better finishing on the night, he would have had a hat-trick of assists here. Although the quality of opposition were undeniably poor, Tielemans is sending Martinez a message with his performances.