World Cup 2018: The Belgium XI that won’t feature

Defence: Laurent Ciman, Jason Denayer, Jordan Lukaku

Ciman starred for LA Galaxy last term

Whilst Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld are likely the preferred center-back duo at the majors, Martinez is taking a risk with the injured Vincent Kompany, who recently hobbled off after sustaining in a knock during a friendly.

His decision came into question, especially having overlooked Laurent Ciman in that case.

The 32-year old has 19 caps under his belt, but none since 2016. Ciman joined LA Galaxy at the turn of 2018 and despite turning in some fine displays, was continued to be overlooked by the former Everton boss.

As a matter of fact, his 115 interceptions last season were the highest among the defenders in the MLS, while he also made 134 clearances - 8th best in the league. He is also credited for scoring the first ever goal at the LA’s new home ground, Banc of California Stadium.

Pretty impressive stats to back his cause, if only Martinez had heeded to it.

Denayar has ample time to get back in the Belgium side

Jason Denayer was a part of the Euro 2016 team, but his only appearance in the competition came in the 3-1 defeat to Wales in the quarter-finals. Things didn’t break on the international stage for him too after that.

The 22-year old has been shifting between loan spells in the last three years, from Galatasaray to Sunderland before moving back to the Turkish capital.

This frequent change of scene hasn’t helped him establish and play to his full potential. But he still has time on his side and can resurrect his international career in near future.

Lukaku's time in the last 2 years have been blighted by injuries

Whilst Romelu Lukaku will be looking to lead the attacking vanguard for Belgium, his younger and lesser-known brother Jordan, would be watching him from home.

The 23-year old had an indifferent season with Serie A side Lazio, while the recurring injuries did not help his cause either.

He has missed 19 games since the start of last season, as a regular bout of hamstring and muscle injuries kept him on the treatment table for 204 days!

This certainly stymied his performances on the field, as Lukaku looked increasingly unsettled and failed to bring anything of worth to the table.

He made just 13 tackles at a success rate of hardly 33% and won only 37% of his duels.