Albert declares Villa midfielder Tielemans 'a genius'

Newcastle hero Philippe Albert is full of praise for Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans.

Tielemans was superb for Belgium in last week's win against Serbia.

"Due to the absence of Amadou Onana [on Sunday], there should not even be a debate about this," Albert told SudPresse.

"If you manage to recover from such a long dark period with the national team and a start to the season in which you were ignored by your coach, then you show enormous mental strength.

"And when Kevin De Bruyne sends balls like that when he plays, we all jump up and shout what a genius he is."