Jeremy Doku's fitness doubts ahead of Belgium vs New Zealand
Jeremy Doku returned to the Belgium camp yesterday evening (Seattle time) after attending the birth of his son Praise, despite his flight arriving three hours later than scheduled. The winger, still battling a respiratory infection, resumed light training today as the team prepares for the group match against New Zealand.
Doctor Brecht De Coninck accompanied Doku throughout the delayed flight and remained by his side upon arrival. The physician also had to rush to London to find a present for the newborn.
Doku received a course of antibiotics together with cortisone, which proved effective against the infection. Nevertheless, staff will monitor how he feels after training and whether jet‑lag from the short London trips hampers his performance.
The technical staff are cautious, indicating that Doku is unlikely to start the New Zealand game but could be introduced in the second half. Their priority is to have him available for the decisive group‑stage encounter.
Zeno Debast is scheduled for an MRI tomorrow; a positive result would grant him clearance to train fully and make him eligible for the next round.