Steven Defour is Standard Liege's most creative threat. Today he takes on Red Bull Salzburg in the UEFA Europa League. Next season he could be playing at Old Trafford for Manchester United. Here are some key facts...
Name: Steven Defour
Age: 21
Birthplace: Mechelen, Belgium
Height: 174cm
Position: Midfield
His career: Defour became Standard Liege's captain at just 19 years of age. His career has skyrocketed since, with his market value now estimated at in excess of €10m. The Belgium international is his side's key man – when Defour broke his leg last autumn, Standard dropped rapidly down the league. Since his successful comeback in the spring, his team have regained their confidence and currently sit in fourth place in the Jupiler Pro League.
His fans: It's not just the fans who flock to the Stade Maurice Dufrasne in Liege who admire the young star – Defour has fans in England and Spain, with scouts from some of Europe's top clubs monitoring the 21-year-old's progress. He is apparently being monitored by Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid among others.
His secret letter: While Defour was convalescing from a broken leg, he received a letter from Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. The Scot, who is keeping a close eye on Defour, wished the attacking midfielder well in his recovery.
His thoughts about Red Bull Salzburg: During his recent visit to Salzburg, Defour said about the current Austrian champions: “I saw them in the Europa League against Lazio and Villarreal. They play very quick football and, with Marc Janko, they have got a top-class striker.”
This Thursday he will meet the Austrian goal-getter for the first time on the playing field...
For more information on the Europa League clash, visit www.redbulls.com
Johan Stahlberg/Red Bull Photofiles
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