Shortly before the European Championship kick-off

Big worries! Belgium running out of defensive players

Worry lines for Domenico Tedesco (center)(Bild: VIRGINIE LEFOUR)

Big worry lines! Belgium's national soccer coach Domenico Tedesco is running out of defensive players ahead of the start of the European Championship in Germany. 

Axel Witsel was also unable to train with the team on Friday due to muscular problems. Veteran Jan Vertonghen is suffering from pain in his groin and Arthur Theate has injured his ankle. Thomas Meunier is still missing completely and is not expected to join the team until his injury has healed.

As a result, the back four is likely to line up on its own for the clash with Slovakia in Frankfurt on Monday (6pm). The Belgians will then face Romania and Ukraine in Group E.