We take a look at Middlesbrough’s new Danish left-back Lukas Engel with some insight from two football experts who know the 24-year-old well.
The Teesside club lost out on the signature of Ryan Giles – a player who had a huge hand in the club’s success last season – but have once again shown that they are committed to continuing with their recruitment model, with the permanent signing of another young, ambitious player in Lukas Engel.
We spoke to two experts in Danish football, who gave detailed explanations as to why Michael Carrick may have a gem on his hands.
Attacking full-back
Thomas Norgaard Andersen; Head of Communications at Silkeborg IF and Sports Journalist of the Year in 2021 gave his assessment on Boro’s new signing, with some interesting similarities between the new boy and Giles.
Andersen said, “He is a very attacking full back with an excellent left foot. His crosses are superb and he often finds the head of the striker in the box. He has a good shot as well.”
The Danish journalist also offered some encouraging news regarding his defensive qualities, something Giles received criticism for in some quarters. “He is a fighter as well and fairly good in the air for Danish standards.”
He also added that he thinks the Middlesbrough faithful will enjoy his personality. “He has a fun personality – so he could be a fan favorite. he was a key member of the squad – also in the dressing room. The fans are devastated, but they understand Middlesbrough is a big chance.”
Goalscorer
If Middlesbrough fans were to check the stats of Engel, they may well be surprised at the goal-return early in his career.
He actually scored 29 goals in 48 games for his first professional club Kastrup Boldklub. That is due to him playing as a striker before becoming a marauding left-back. We also spoke to Bjorn Elimar, a UEFA B-licence Under 17 coach in Denmark, who specialises in tactical analysis.
“Lukas Engel is a classic, dependable left-back known for his stability on the field,” Elimar said. “Proficient in zone defence, he often joins the attack due to his history as a forward.
He also explained that the player will suit Carrick’s attacking style, and should adapt quickly, with former club Silkeborg IF playing similarly. “His ability to attack is influenced by Silkeborg IF’s playing style, which encourages both full-backs to advance into the box during offensive maneuvers.
“He is accustomed to commanding the entire left side, a role he relishes. He was selected for the U-21 national team in his youth, although, to the best of my knowledge, he didn’t officially debut.”
The left-back spot has been a position that has required attention all summer, after Middlesbrough saw Giles return to his parent club and the departure of Marc Bola.
Engel managed one goal and 10 assists in 35 games last season. Boro fans will be hoping that the club has unearthed another young starlet that will help them towards promotion to the Premier League.
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