COUR BLIMEY
Former Chelsea star Courtois in talks to make shock Belgium return after refusing to play until manager was sacked
The Belgian FA have given an update on the manager's future
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THIBAUT COURTOIS is in talks over a Belgium return after refusing to play for his country again until the manager was sacked.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper had a huge falling out with boss Domenico Tedesco in June last year.
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Their bust-up came after Courtois was shockingly stripped of the captaincy for games against Austria and Estonia.
The 102-timed capped international claimed he was not told why he was snubbed of the armband and that Tedesco did not appreciate him.
After a lengthy injury lay-off, Courtois then revealed he would not play for Belgium again while the ex-RB Leipzig gaffer remained in charge.
But Belgian FA chief Peter Willems is trying to get the former Chelsea No1 to reconsider.
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Quizzed on the talks, Tedesco said: "Peter informed me some weeks ago about it, so I knew.
"He asked me what do you think about it? For me, first of all, he has all the rights to do that as a CEO, of course.
"And second, I was always and I am still completely open to it.
"I think that on this topic, everything has been discussed."
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In his bombshell statement ahead of the Euros earlier this year, Courtois said: "Unfortunately, following the events with the coach and after much reflection, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his management.
"In this matter, I accept my share of responsibility.
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"However, looking forward, my lack of confidence in him would not contribute to maintaining the necessary atmosphere of cordiality.
"The federation, with whom I have had several discussions, accepts my position and the reasons that led me to this painful but coherent decision.
"I regret possibly disappointing some fans, but I am convinced that this is the best course of action for Belgium, as it closes a debate and allows the team to focus on pursuing its goals."
The Red Devils had a disappointing Euros, scoring just two goals en route to crashing out in the last-16 stage to France.
Belgium are sticking by Tedesco despite pressure, with Willems saying he is "absolutely the right man in the right place".
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