Roma striker Romelu Lukaku was in the starting XI for Belgium against Azerbaijan and played 66 minutes, although he was visibly not in great shape.
The striker has been out of action all summer, as he was frozen out by parent club Chelsea, then was only able to complete his loan move to Roma on the final days of the transfer window.
It was a chaotic time, as negotiations were held with Inter, Juventus and clubs in the Saudi Pro League, all without finding a solution for the unwanted centre-forward.
Lukaku made his Giallorossi debut when coming off the bench in the 2-1 Serie A defeat to Milan at the 71st minute on September 1.
He was then called up to international duty with Belgium and was picked in the starting XI for this afternoon’s trip to Azerbaijan.
The 30-year-old played for 66 minutes and contributed something to the slender 1-0 victory, as he won the ball back in midfield to spark the counter for Yannick Carrasco’s goal.
It is good news for Jose Mourinho, who needs Lukaku in good shape for Serie A and the Europa League.
Does being “in shape” mean resembling a grazing bison?