Cyriac Embraces Leadership Role at Anderlecht Ahead of Super Cup Clash
Ivory Coast striker Gohi Bi Cyriac says he is embracing a leadership role at RSC Anderlecht, two years after joining the Belgian champions from rivals Standard Liège.
Now 24, Cyriac told Walfoot.be that he feels a growing sense of responsibility within a youthful squad, describing himself as a “big brother” to emerging talents at the club. “I feel older. I feel more responsible for these young players,” he said. “For example, there’s Andy Kawaya, whom I’m taking under my wing.”
Cyriac also praised the development of 17-year-old midfielder Youri Tielemans, who has already completed a full season in the Belgian top flight. “Look at Youri Tielemans: he’s only 17 and yet he’s already played a season in the first division. I don’t think the young players will have a negative impact on the group,” he added.
The new Belgian football season will kick off this weekend with the Super Cup, as league champions Anderlecht face Belgian Cup winners Lokeren. The match will serve as the curtain-raiser to the 2014–15 campaign.
Cyriac is confident that Anderlecht can secure a win in Sunday’s match, despite squad changes and the coach’s call for reinforcements. “The coach has asked for reinforcements and will get them. But that’s no excuse for the Super Cup. With this group, we have to win.”
Victory on Sunday would mark Anderlecht’s 11th Belgian Super Cup title and their third consecutive win in the competition. It would also serve as a strong statement ahead of the new domestic season as the Brussels side look to defend their league crown.
