Craig Burley has made a bold claim about one Manchester City player’s displays at the European Championship.
Burley was very critical of Kevin De Bruyne, slamming his post-match comments after Belgium’s 0-0 draw against Ukraine as “embarrassing.”
Alongside the Manchester City vice-captain, the likes of Jeremy Doku, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Phil Foden, John Stones and Kyle Walker’s national teams are all in the Round of 16 at Euro 2024. The likes of Belgium, Portugal and England should all be fancied to potentially win the tournament.
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Craig Burley criticises Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku for Belgium displays
However, so far, not every one of these players has lit up the competition.
One player whose performances at Euro 2024 have divided opinion is Doku.
Wayne Rooney feels the 22-year-old does not put crosses into the box, which is believed to be a cardinal sin for a winger.
However, Clement Tainmont urged Domenico Tedesco to start the speedster in every game in Germany.
But Craig Burley believes that Doku has been unconvincing in a Belgium shirt at the tournament so far.
The pundit said via ESPN FC: “Belgium are lucky that they’re through. They are not a good side to watch, they’re lethargic, [Jeremy] Doku is hitting and missing on the left, [Kevin] De Bruyne’s trying to carry the whole side but he looks heavy-legged and frustrated and they get France.”
Jeremy Doku has done his best for Belgium at Euro 2024
Craig Burley is being quite harsh in his criticism of Doku.
The £55.5 million man has largely been one of Belgium’s liveliest players, giving full-backs a nightmare on whichever flank he plays on and creating chances.
Doku might have not registered a goal or an assist yet but he has completed the most take-ons (13) and touches in the opposition box (29) at the European Championship, as per Squawka.
The Manchester City forward has been helping a Belgium side get up the pitch through his mazy dribbling, which has been vital, considering they struggle to progress the ball in the middle of the park.
Belgium, as a team lack balance and as a result, Doku as well as De Bruyne’s bright showings have still led to them winning just one out of three games in Group E.
The tricky winger will be determined to silence detractors like Craig Burley against France in the Round of 16 on Monday evening.