Courtois lost 4lbs due to stomach problems but ex-Chelsea star does NOT have anxiety issues, claims Belgium coach Martinez
BELGIUM boss Roberto Martinez has claimed that Thibaut Courtois does NOT have any anxiety problems as he reveals he lost around 4lbs due to gastroenteritis.
There were reports that the Real Madrid goalkeeper was subbed off against Club Brugge in the Champions League after he suffered an anxiety attack, a claim the club strenuously denied.
Los Blancos then stated the ex-Chelsea ace was suffering from a severely upset stomach - but Blues fans still failed to show him any sympathy as they continue to brand him as a "snake".
Real said: "We can make it clear that our player at no time has been diagnosed with an alleged anxiety disorder and therefore that information is absolutely false.
"Thibaut Courtois has been diagnosed and treated for acute gastroenteritis with dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which made it impossible for him to finish last Tuesday's game against Brugge.
"The player currently responds in a favourable manner to the treatment."
And Martinez has now echoed the club's statement, as he also revealed the 27-year-old needs to put on weight.
Speaking ahead of Belgium's Euro 2020 qualifier against San Marino tomorrow, the ex-Everton gaffer said: "There is no problem with anxiety.
"He has to recover between one and a half and two kilos (3.3lbs-4.4lbs).
"Totally what a gastroenteritis can take (from) you.";
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Courtois has been criticised over his performances this season, but Martinez is adamant he is still at the peak of his powers.
He added: "He is a player who dreams of playing in Madrid from a very young age and is now prepared to mark an era in Madrid.
"I am convinced that he is the best goalkeeper in the world."