- May 22, 2005
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At that age, i.e. 21, few saw "fuss" about Drogba at either. At that age Drogba was plying his trade at Le Mans (20-24) and then Guingamp, before a bigger club, l'OM, caught their attention. It was not before he turned 26 that he "world" first saw Drogba. Yes, Drogba may be a slow developer and Lukaku most probably won't ever reach his standards but I would not write off Lukaku just like that just because he won't be the player Drogba was. Henry and Drogba was easily the 2 best CF in the EPL history one in their time some of the best in the world.
Lukaku had a poor world cup, which has been the case of many excellent players.
For 20-22M I would not say not to signing him.
True, he is young, but I just don't see that innate footballing ability (either your reading of the game, or your manipulation of a football) that separates the good from the really good.
As a footballer he's OK, and as a striker he's OK (not really a poacher or a player who can bring his team mates into the game). He seems to have a good attitude and physically he's a beast, so he'll have a decent carrerr I'm sure, I just don't rate him as highly as other big athletic strikers. Ade is far better.
Like you said he's young and the striking side can be taught to a point (timing runs, where to run etc), but to my eye he just doesn't look special.
I think Benteke and Origi have far more natural gifts to work with.
I'm not always right, for ages I just couldn't understand Lampard.