ERIC GERETS RATING

Gerets was Belgium's first and only 'world-class' full back which explains his lofty status in his homeland. His leadership qualities were also admirable and explain how he succeeded in prominent roles such as captain of PSV, winning the European cup with them.

Where Gerets strengths lie is mainly in his defensive ability. He could contribute going forwards on the odd occasion, but as he aged - generally speaking he was a key component in terms organising the Belgian back line and was very dependable even against high calibre attacking opponents.

Gerets nevertheless upon closer inspection lacked the defensive precision (he could be rash in the tackle and lacked recovery speed) and the technical ability (not a particularly adept and subtle ball carrier) with the ball to push himself beyond 'world-class' territory and into an all-time great contender. His peers Brehme, Amoros were on a different level and unlike Alves who redefined the modern game despite not being an all-time great, Gerets didn't bring anything revolutionary to the game from a tactical perspective.

In summary, Gerets was a world class full-back and Belgium's finest in that role. Whilst he was regarded as one of the finest full backs of his own generation, he lacked the 'elite' level skills needed to be a competitor in the inter-generational context.