Rodgers’ star Youri is simply the boss

BRENDAN RODGERS says he can spot a managerial maestro in midfield star Youri Tielemans.

Leicester boss Rodgers is renowned for absorbing everything he can soak up on the coaching aspect of the game.

And he’s seen something in his young Belgian ace that he thinks sets him apart from the rest.

Tielemans (below) will be at the heart of Leicester’s midfield today as they try to maintain their push for a top-four spot with a crucial clash at Aston Villa.

The former Anderlecht and Monaco man joked that his boss thinks he’s after his job but takes it as a massive compliment.

“He thinks I can be a manager. I don’t know why, you’d have to ask him.

“Maybe it’s because I am never a problem. I live quite a quiet life. I’m a good family man.”

Rodgers says there’s a lot more to it than just that and can’t believe Tielemans is still so young, saying: “He’s been brilliant to work with.

“He deserves all the praise he gets.

It’s easy to forget he’s only 23.

“His tactical view of the game is at the very highest level and now he’s got used to the physical side of the game here.

“He’s been off to the gym to get himself stronger. That side of things can make it tough when you first come over and sample the physicality of the Premier League.

“But Youri sees the passes so early as well so he’s able to give himself the time and space he needs more often than not, even from tight situations.”

The Leicester boss says keeping Tielemans at the King Power is already on the back-burner.

Rodgers added: “I would love to keep him here. He’s a really, really important player at this club.

“He’s got a couple of years left on his contract but I know it’s something the club will be speaking to him and his representatives about.”

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