Been and Vossen reveal secrets of Genk success
Friday, January 25, 2013
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With KRC Genk through to the knockout stages of a European competition for the first time, coach Mario Been and captain Jelle Vossen reveal the secrets of their success.
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The sole surviving Belgian club in UEFA competition, KRC Genk have been one of the success stories in this season's UEFA Europa League. Coach Mario Been and striker Jelle Vossen spoke to UEFA.com about their team's achievements and their reputation for nurturing young talent.
"I think we did very well considering the draw, especially playing Sporting but also Basel and Videoton, who were something of an unknown quantity," said Been. "Sporting were favourites and Basel played in last season's Champions League. It has been a great achievement to finish first in the group and to progress unbeaten."
Since their formation in 1988, Genk have become one of the strongest sides in Belgium, lifting three First League titles and as many domestic cups. In that time, the club's production line has generated a string of exciting prospects including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, forward Christian Benteke and current captain Vossen.
"We have a very good academy and it's a big advantage in Belgian football," the 23-year-old front man explained. "We're a textbook example of that." On the same theme, Been added: "Using young players fits very well with the vision of the club. I try to give continuity to that vision by using one or two youth players every game."
Click on the video above to see both interviews in full.