Belgium manager Roberto Martinez says Kevin De Bruyne is being honest and cares for the national team after the midfielder criticised the team's system Belgium manager Roberto Martinez says Kevin De Bruyne is being honest and cares for the national team after the midfielder criticised the team's system

Kevin De Bruyne says that Roberto Martinez must adapt his tactics if Belgium are to have any impact at the World Cup finals next summer.

Belgium, quarter-finalists in Brazil in 2014, cruised through their qualifying group with nine wins and one draw but all is not well in the camp, according to the Manchester City star.

They drew 3-3 against Mexico in Brussels in their latest friendly outing but De Bruyne says the signs for next year's tournament in Russia are far from encouraging.

Kevin De Bruyne says Roberto Martinez needs to change his tactical outlook

He told Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Niewus: "Mexico were just tactically better. Their system made our five defenders sit deep and we were swimming in midfield - it was five against seven.

"As long as we don't have a good tactical system, we will have difficulties against countries like Mexico. It's a pity that we have not yet found a solution.

"Of course we play with a system that is in principle very defensive, but it is filled with many attacking players who want the ball.

Belgium's Romelu Lukaku scored twice in the 3-3 draw with Mexico

"Then you have a bit of a problem, like against Mexico. It was a match in which we had very little possession and everyone in a system that doesn't really fit.

"But eventually Martinez decides. I think the trainer has to find a solution so that we can avoid such situations in future."

Belgium continue their preparations for the 2018 World Cup when they host Japan on 14 November.