Matte Smets

Not a quick centre-back, relies on reading and positioning over burst. (conf 0.45)

Adequate recovery speed for a centre-back in a back three. (conf 0.45)

Solid balance; turns less sharply than quicker defenders. (conf 0.45)

Handles the load of a full season as a Genk centre-back. (conf 0.45)

Midfield background gives clean control at the back. (conf 0.45)

Not a ball carrier; steps out only when space opens. (conf 0.45)

Uses his body adequately to protect the ball in build-up. (conf 0.45)

Neat but unspectacular striking of the ball. (conf 0.45)

Comfortable in short build-up, a legacy of his midfield past. (conf 0.45)

Can play progressive passes from the back line. (conf 0.45)

Central defender with little crossing role. (conf 0.45)

Reads simple passing options, not a creative passer. (conf 0.45)

Defender with little goal threat outside set pieces. (conf 0.45)

Seldom a shooter; keeps decisions conservative. (conf 0.45)

Occasional runs at set pieces, little else in attack. (conf 0.45)

No known set-piece or long-range threat. (conf 0.45)

Competes well in aerial duels at both ends as a centre-back. (conf 0.45)

Positive in one-v-one defending, a strength of his game. (conf 0.45)

Steps out to engage but mainly holds the defensive line. (conf 0.45)

Intercepts and tackles well, helped by midfield instincts. (conf 0.45)

Developed into a centre-back in a back three, reads lines well. (conf 0.45)

Composed enough for Belgium U21 and a senior cap. (conf 0.45)

Sensible, low-risk choices in defence and build-up. (conf 0.45)

Reliable effort and consistent availability for his role. (conf 0.45)

No significant injury history found in public sources. (conf 0.3)

Still 22, with Belgium U21 and senior exposure to build on. (conf 0.45)

Belgium U21 regular and one senior cap, but not a big name yet. (conf 0.45)