Courtois in talks over Belgium return after refusing to play until boss was axed

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.

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.

“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”.