‘A nightmare’: National media react to Man Utd star’s performance after rare start

Senne Lammens earned high praise for his display during Belgium’s 3-0 win over Turkey on Friday.

The Manchester United star has been granted the opportunity to be his nation’s No.1 over the international break, with Thibaut Courtois, who is fit and available, declining the chance to feature in the Nations League fixtures.

How Senne Lammens has fared over the break

As a result, it’s paved the way for the 24-year-old to stake his claim in the absence of his senior counterpart.

Lammens has started all three games thus far, keeping two clean sheets and conceding only one goal.

He will presumably retain his place for tonight’s clash with France, before returning to United with a newfound confidence.

The shot-stopper will know more than anyone that his start at club-level has left much to be desired, as he has conceded eight goals and failed to keep a clean sheet in the opening five Premier League games.

What’s being said about Lammens?

Alas, Michael Carrick will be hoping that Lammens is able to maintain his stellar form when he swaps his Belgium shirt for a United one next weekend.

During their encounter with Turkey, the Club Brugge graduate recorded a whopping 13 recoveries and eight saves.

Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad subsequently said of Lammens: “Proved for the third consecutive match that he is worthy of the national team coach’s trust.

“He makes the saves he is supposed to make—and as a goalkeeper, that takes you a long way. Turned out to be a nightmare for [Arda] Guler.”

Meanwhile, Lammens expressed last week that he was confident he had established himself as Courtois’ successor, saying: “We haven’t talked about it [Courtois] much. I think it is important to focus on the current matches and the players who are here.

“I think I am the number one now. It is important that I perform well and am ready immediately. I cannot control what the future holds. But I can control my performances.”