Belgian national team manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed in today’s pre-match press conference that Romelu Lukaku will be one of several big name players that will not play in tomorrow’s international friendly match against Ivory Coast.

Inter striker Lukaku is Belgium’s all time record goalscorer with him having scored 52 goals in 85 competitive appearances across all competitions but will need to wait until Sunday to play for the Red Devils again, when they take on England in UEFA Nations League action.

When asked if Lukaku, Thibaut Courtois, Toby Alderweireld, Axel Witsel, Thomas Meunier, Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans would play against Ivory Coast, Martinez said: “None of these players will take to the field. This is a unique opportunity for us to see some young talents at work.

“I like to integrate these guys into our group of established players, experience is important. Tomorrow the fans can expect a sort of window to the future.”

Lukaku joined Inter in a club record €65 million deal from Premier League club Manchester United and has had a stellar spell with Inter thus far. The 27-year-old has made 54 appearances across all competitions for the club, in which he has scored a very impressive 37 goals.