Belgium will be without Jeremy Doku for their World Cup match against Iran after the winger was ruled out with a respiratory infection.
According to HLN, the Manchester City player has been dealing with the illness for several weeks. Although he previously recovered, the infection has returned, forcing him to miss Belgium’s second game of the tournament.
Doku will remain at the team hotel to rest while the rest of the squad prepares to face Iran.
The 24-year-old is one of Belgium’s most important attacking players and his absence leaves head coach Rudi Garcia with a decision to make on the wings.
Belgium struggled to find balance in their recent match against Egypt, where Doku was frequently double-marked. Despite the extra defensive attention on the winger, the Red Devils were unable to take advantage of the additional space elsewhere on the pitch.
Garcia has several options available to replace Doku. Dodi Lukebakio could come into the starting lineup, while Charles De Ketelaere may be moved into a wider role with Matias Fernandez-Pardo also in contention for a place in the team.
Doku’s absence could now provide another player with the opportunity to impress and strengthen their claim for a regular starting spot in Belgium’s World Cup campaign.
