Manchester Evening News

Kev full of love for Romeo

- By SIMON BAJKOWSKI

ROMEO Lavia was blown away by praise from Kevin de Bruyne as he looks to play more games with his team-mate at Manchester City.

The 18-year-old was spotted as a youngster playing in the KDB Cup in Belgium, and the Blues swooped to sign him up for their academy from Anderlecht – disappoint­ing the Belgian club, who were hoping he would continue with them.

The teen has impressed in his two years at the City Football Academy, and made his debut last season in the Carabao Cup alongside De Bruyne. City’s star playmaker only has good things to say about Lavia, tipping him as a potential star of the future for the Blues and for Belgium.

And that has only served to encourage the holding midfielder more as he looks to cement his future at the Etihad. “It is an unbelievab­le statement. I didn’t expect it, so it’s really nice to hear that from one of the best midfielder­s in the world,” he said, speaking at the launch of Sure’s new 72 Hour Nonstop Protection Antiperspi­rant.

“Especially in Belgium as well so yeah, it is nice to hear. It’s just amazing to just see how quickly they see the game than us as young players.

“It’s surprising at times and looks a bit scary – but great.”

Lavia played in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup last season for City, as well as training regularly with the first team.

He could be used more next season, given the departure of Fernandinh­o, as a back-up for Rodri.

■ Sure has launched its new 72 Hour Nonstop Protection Antiperspi­rant. Follow @Sure on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to learn more.

 ?? ?? City youngster romeo lavia
City youngster romeo lavia

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