Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku’s fitness remains a focus for his team as they prepare to face Senegal in the World Cup round of 32 on Wednesday.
The 33-year-old attacker, his team’s all-time leading scorer, withdrew from Belgium’s friendlies in the United States in the spring to recover. He missed much of the club season with a hamstring injury. Last season, Lukaku made just seven appearances in all competitions for Italian side Napoli.
“I’m letting myself go. I train hard and, in the end, I’m happy to be here,” Lukaku declared on Monday. “Especially when you see where I come from, I try to make an impact when I need to.”
At what point is your physical condition?
Lukaku started the second game of the group stage against Iran and struggled to keep up. He did not take a shot, received a yellow card and was substituted in the 73rd minute.
However, in his two substitute appearances against Egypt and New Zealand, his performance was noticeably better. The forward scored an own goal just 23 seconds after taking the field, in the 1-1 draw against Egypt.
His evolution will be key for Belgian aspirations in the tournament.




