Romelu Lukaku

Romelu Lukaku     18     Striker     Chelsea

Never has one player been defined by so many comparisons to another.  With Didier Drogba being mentioned before, during and after Romelu Lukaku’s move from Anderlecht to Stamford Bridge, it was inevitable that a huge weight of expectation would be placed on the young Belgian’s shoulders before a ball had been kicked.

Lukaku undoubtedly has Drogba’s physicality and presence but will look to be judged on his own merits. His rise in Belgian football was meteoric and leaving Anderlecht with a record of (just under) a goal every other game at his tender age has to be classed as phenomenal. Wrongly labelled as a bulldozer of a player, it’s Lukaku’s touch and ability on the ball that truly sets him apart.  If there’s an area of his game Lukaku needs to work on, it’s his finishing - which, when considering his record, gives an indication of just how good he is -  but with experience and game time comes more composure in front of goal.

It was inevitable that a step up and a move would come.  Real Madrid and Manchester United had long been interested but Chelsea moved quickest and Lukaku finds himself with a new home this season. First team chances will be initially limited, but with Chelsea in transition as AVB’s revolution really takes hold over the next 2 transfer windows (should the manager last that long), Lukaku will be a big part of his club's future.

There is a lot of talk of possible loan move to Everton, Stoke or a Spanish side in January and that may provide the perfect bridge – no pun intended - to settling into Premier League life.

"Phenomenal strength, agile for his height but tends to drift out of important games - especially at int level.  Would pop up with something magical at Anderlecht, but fear he's left a year early. Chelsea want Drogba's heir apparent but still long way off finished article. Hope his time on Chelsea bench doesn't harm development" - Chris Mayer (Belgian Waffle)

C+     A great season but a bigger challenge awaits.  You’re more than capable, prove it.