Fulham defender Timothy Castagne defends Domenico Tedesco after captaining Belgium to Israeli defeat | OneFootball

Fulham defender Timothy Castagne would have hoped for a better way to celebrate being made captain of the Belgian national team. The defender led the side out in a disappointing defeat to Israel in the Nations League. The result, alongside a disappointing campaign in the competition, has seen immense pressure mount on head coach Domenico Tedesco, with his position now in jeopardy.

However, following the game, Castage was quick to defend the under pressure Tedesco. As reported by Het Nieuwsblad, the defender said ‘It’s not always the coach’s fault. Everyone has to do better, including me’. The 28-year-old former Leicester defender was celebrating winning his 53rd cap for the Red Devils.

In truth, following the Golden Generation was always going to be tough. Expectations around the national team have increased because of what that side was able to achieve. However, there is certainly some talent coming through and many would argue that this side have so far struggled to play up to the level they can do.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson – Author of The Africa Cup of Nations: The History of an Underappreciated Tournament