BEL OF A WELCOME

BELGIUM’S World Cup squad were welcomed home by a crowd tens of thousands strong after their thirdplace finish in Russia.

Roberto Martinez’s men ended an impressive tournament with a 2-0 victory over England.

While England opted to return to Birmingham airport and told fans to stay away, Belgium supporters flocked in huge numbers to the Grand Place in Brussels, with the players riding in open-top buses along the city’s streets.

“When we were in Russia, we received many messages that you believed this team would make history,” said Martinez. “I hope we made you proud.”