Tielemans will only get better with age – boss

YOURI Tielemans is already Brendan Rodgers’ coach on the pitch, but his influence will continue to grow at Leicester City, the manager believes.

The Belgian midfielder proved his importance in Thursday’s 3-3 draw with Braga, his half-time introduction swinging the game in City’s favour, writes Jordan Blackwell.

It was a display indicative of Tielemans’ season, the Belgian excelling in a deeper position.

Last term, playing in a box-to-box role, the 23-year-old occasionally went missing, but now with more of the game in front of him, he is able to conduct proceedings and live up to Rodgers’ billing.

For his age, Tielemans is incredibly experienced, the midfielder starting his career at Anderlecht at 16 and having now racked up more than 350 senior appearances for club and country.

In spite of the experience he has already accumulated, Rodgers is backing him to become ever better, and become an even more influential player.

“He’s only going to get better with age,” said Rodgers. “When he first came in his first six months to a year was really spent adjusting to the pace and the tempo of the league.

“He’s a real joy to work with, like all the Belgian boys here. They really love their football and they are constantly asking questions about the game.

“Tactically, they are very strong, they are very focused and Youri is very honest.

“I think he will continue to grow and his influence is only going to get better and improve over the coming years. I’m just delighted he is here. He has started the season really well and we hope that consistency continues.”