MERTENS - LOOK BEYOND THE AGE TO FIND VERSATILITY

Many have written off Mertens due to his age. However, make no mistake about the fact that he is an assist and goal-scoring machine. His last 10 games before lock-down in all club competition was 4 goals and 3 assists.

1/8

Barcelona - 1st leg of 2nd round

Has an excellent understanding of how to play as a wide man. His movement is impeccable as he knows exactly when to attack the space provided.

Shooting ability is simply phenomenal.

2/8

Cagliari

Links up very well with the full-backs. A sensational finish from inside the box. He will be a nightmare for low blocks as he does not require too much space to shoot and he can create an angle from anywhere to release a shot.

3/8

Genk - UCL group stage

A cheeky penalty taker as well if Jorg is not available. His shooting technical range is top-notch.

4/8

Sampdoria

Game awareness and sensing an opportunity comes very naturally to Mertens. He is always on the move. Always tracking the ball and the play. Any opposition error is pounced on to maximum effect.

5/8

Lecce

Mertens' footballing IQ is next level. Look how he tracks Insigne's run here. He provides the overlap for him to outnumber the opposition defense out wide. Then the clinical cross to put it on the plate for Milik.

Vision, movement, and crossing

6/8

Parma

This is the type of play Chelsea could do against defensive-minded teams. Mertens is exceptional playing with his back to goal. Supreme in hold up play and then the ability to pull back to release a pinpoint cross... WOW

Tremendous vision!!

7/8

Torino

His understanding of playing as a wide man is next level. Always probing the defense and searching for a cross to open up the play. Brilliant crossing ability.

Overall (even at 32):
- Versatile (can play many positions)
- Experienced
- Lots of technical ability

8/8