GOLD... OR BE TARNISHED

ENGLAND’S Golden Generation never lived up to that billing.

But former Belgium manager Georges Leekens (left) believes it’s time for players know each other very well,” added Martinez. “It’s going to be a great game to watch in a major tournament with a lot of meaning on it. “The fact we’re facing England, sometimes you can see that football has these twists and turns. “I’ve spent 21 years in the UK, my daughter is English and it’s going to be quite difficult to persuade her to support Belgium. “I started trying after the draw, although she doesn’t really understand, she thinks we’re going to play together, Belgium and England.” Martinez’s friends and neighbours in England have been supportive… up to a point. He said: “A lot of them wish me well and then remember we are playing England.”

Belgium are unbeaten in their last nine World Cup group games (W4 D5), and won their last four. They have made it to the second round in their last seven World Cup appearances, apart from 1998.

the Belgian equivalent to finally fulfil their potential.

The Hungary boss was in charge of the Red Devils between 2010 and 2012 and handed debuts Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.

Leekens said: “People talk about potential a lot in football.

“But the time to talk about the potential of this Belgian side is over.

“It’s time for them to deliver on the biggest stage and I’m confident they will.”