Happy smiling faces.
1 Playing with a back three has proved successful and gives Belgium an option when they want to avoid playing central defenders at full-back. However, it has yet to be tested against the strongest opposition.
2. Whatever formation is chosen, Kevin De Bruyne must play centrally and never be shunted out wide.
3. The introduction of Thierry Henry into the camp looks as if it has been beneficial – the forwards are finally playing with smiles on their faces.
4. Martinez has been strong over the dispute with Radja Nainggolan and has sent a clear message to the other players.
5. One problem that Martinez has – and it was also met by Wilmots – is that the World Cup qualifying group is relatively easy and it will be possible to reach Moscow without playing any of the fancied teams. Serious friendlies against such teams will be essential – whatever the cost to the Belgian FA.
6. Martinez has introduced young players like Leander Dendoncker and Youri Tielemans into the squad and this will send a message to the Belgian U21s.
Monsieur Henry – enjoying his time in Belgium.
7. With Romelu Lukaku playing his best ever game for Belgium, Martinez now has a squad – assuming they play 3-4-3 – without weaknesses and with strong backup.
8. Martinez has got the team playing in a style that has brought the fans back on to the team’s side; after the rather desperate time at the end of the Wilmots’ era.
9. Strangely, Martinez seems to be more attentive to the Jupiler Pro League than Wilmots ever was.
10. Although the first major test will be in Russia itself, the confidence in the squad is improving all the time.