By LEWIS BIRRELL
Belgium winger Hans Vanaken says he can’t wait to tap into Shaun Maloney’s international experience.
The former Celtic attacker was appointed to Roberto Martinez’s backroom staff last month.
 
Vanaken made his international debut in Friday’s 4-0 win against Scotland and is excited at the prospect of working with his new coach.
He said: “Shaun’s a great coach but he was a great player.
“Players like me can learn a lot from him because he played lots of games for really good teams.
“It’s going to be interesting to work with him. He has so much experience and can pass on some tips to help me play better.
“He knows a lot about Scotland so we were well informed before the game about how they play and how we should play against them.
“This is my first week in the camp so I’m looking forward to working with him throughout the week. Hopefully he can help me to improve.”
The Club Brugge man replaced Eden Hazard after 56 minutes and was a real handful for the Scotland defence.
Vanaken is soaking up the experience of being a part of a star-studded squad but knows he’ll need to continue to improve to keep his place.
“We have a great coaching staff and players here. It’s going to be a great week because I’m already having fun and learning a lot.
“To make my debut for the national team and work with these coaches and players is an honour.
“We did well to win the game as easily as we did. This was the perfect game to prepare us for Tuesday when we play Iceland.
“I’m looking forward to hopefully playing again.”
Vanaken will be hoping to secure his second cap when Belgium travel to Iceland this evening for their Nations League match.
UWS Newsroom 