The former star was unimpressed by the Everton star in the first half… and then had to back track.
Speaking to RTE Sport, Leeds United legend Johnny Giles slammed the “terrible” Romelu Lukaku midway through Belgium’s 3-0 Euro 2016 win over the Republic of Ireland – then gave him credit at full time.
The Everton hitman endured a horrendous first half for the Red Devils as a resolute Irish defence frustrated him throughout the opening 45 minutes, limiting him to very few touches.
At half time, the pundit said: “Lukaku has been a disgrace. He’s terrible – he hasn’t thrown a leg in – and luckily for us [Republic of Ireland] Lukaku has had the day off,” Giles told RTE Sport. “He’s done nothing. Absolutely nothing.”
After the break, though, Lukaku found his rhythm and caressed the ball past a helpless Darren Randolph from outside the box to give Belgium a 1-0 lead on 48 minutes.
The 23-year-old, who scored 25 times for Everton last season, then made it 3-0 in the final quarter, coolly slotting past Randolph from close range, and Giles admitted that he had a good game in the end.
“My pal Lukaku did well,” Giles said at full time. “But the manager [Marc Wilmots] must’ve had a go at him.”
Indeed, it is ominous for Sweden – who are next to face Belgium in Group E – that the big Everton striker is on form, but the Swedes will be hoping that he endures another quiet 90 minutes following his no-show against Italy in his nation’s opener.
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