Football Season Guide

OH Leuven impressed last season in their first campaign back in the top flight. They climbed into the top three in January before injuries to key players led to a dramatic loss of form and they ended the season in mid-table. Leuven had an inflated squad of players last season and 17 players have left the club during the close season. There have been a number of key departures with influential midfielder Hubert, experienced centre-back Kotysch and exciting winger Sowah no longer at the club. So far only two players have arrived and the current squad lacks depth. New signings are expected especially with the club’s links to Leicester City. There is a core of quality players at the club such as goalkeeper Rafael Romo, defender Pierre-Yves Ngawa and attacking midfielder Xavier Mercier. These are backed up by a promising crop of young talent. Key striker Thomas Henry is also still currently at the club. The Frenchman scored 21 league goals last season and has been linked with a move away. Currently the forward line looks strong with Arthur Allemeersch and Siebe Shrijvers providing good back up for Henry, and Mercier providing the assists. However, Henry’s departure would leave them short in this area. Also, several experienced pros have left the club and currently the team lacks leaders.