CHEMSDINE TALBI: FAN VIEW

Ahead of Sunderland completing the signing of Moroccan attacker Chesmdine Talbi from CLub Brugge, we spoke to the editor-in-chief of the fansite FC Bruges No Sweat No Glory, Charles Goudeseune, to get some more information on the 20 year old.

Chemsdine Talbi has been with Club Brugge for virtually all of his career but only really made a major impact on the first team last season, are you surprised a Premier League club have chosen to sign him?

I'm certainly not surprised. He is talented and has already made his mark at a young age, both in the Champions League and against clubs in Belgium, such as against Anderlecht. Although he has been sidetracked in recent weeks, he certainly has the potential to take the necessary steps and I think that Sunderland is the best club for this as a developing young player, so expectations are less high than at a mid-table or top club in England, which means he could develop himself without too much pressure on his shoulders.

What are your thoughts on the reported transfer fee of €23 million (including add-ons), and do you think he's worth that much?

In a way, €23 million is too much for someone who only played regularly for the first team for just one season. But on the other hand, he is still young and you can see that he has talent. So in my opinion it is an investment.

Talbi plays as a right winger, what kind of football does he like to play?

Talbi is fast and is someone who plays best as a super sub rather than as a starting player. When other players are tired, he can use his speed to cut in through the flank and shoot or give a nice cross.

What would you say is his biggest weakness as a footballer?

It's hard to say. In my opinion, he is someone who might be disappointed after a poor match. He may be dropping his shoulders too quickly.

He can also play on the left wing or as an attacking midfielder, how good is he in these positions?

Kind of the same as question three. With his speed and dribbling he can surprise other opponent players, regardless of position.

Still only 20 years old, how good do you think he can become?

If you see what he did in the tie against Atalanta in the Champions League, it would not surprise me if he played for Chelsea or Manchester City after two seasons in England. He just needs to become more consistent in his performance, but if he performs weekly like his matches in the Champions League, such as against Atalanta, then I wouldn't be surprised if he could compete with the best in the world.

Is he good enough for the Premier League right now?

Yes, certainly for a developing player, but at a more established club it would be far too fast.

Does he have a good attitude?

Yes, without a doubt. He is a player who is very eager to learn.

He recently decided to play for Morocco rather than Belgium, would he have been good enough to play for Belgium (where he was born) one day if he hadn't switched his allegiance?

Yes. As a substitute, certainly.

Finally, what was your favourite moment while he played for Club Brugge?

His performance against Atalanta where everyone saw what potential he has.