Lukaku learning under the tutelage of 'Monsieur Henry'

At only 23, Belgium forward Romelu Lukaku is under no illusions that he has learned all there is to learn in the world of football.

It's why working with Arsenal legend Thierry Henry - who recently joined the Belgium national team as an assistant coach - has provided Lukaku and his attack-minded teammates like Christian Benteke, Michy Batshuayi, and Eden Hazard with a unique opportunity to learn from one of the all-time greats.

And it's an opportunity Lukaku says has already made him a better player.

"He took us to one side," Benteke told reporters, according to ESPN FC. "He corrected my manner of getting away from markers.

"We stayed for a long time in front of the screen, and he pointed out our mistakes, corrected us. We listened carefully. It took nearly two hours, but it was great."

Henry may be something of an icon to many around the world, but to Lukaku, Belgium's new assistant coach is a teacher first, and as such, Lukaku has taken to calling him "Monsieur Henry" as "a mark of respect" for the man.

That doesn't mean Henry isn't fun to work with, though.

"He's really with us and isn't distant. Sometimes he comes to drink tea or play PlayStation with us," Lukaku said. "He asks a lot, but that's what we need. He's good at communicating and makes himself heard.

"Concentration and effort are his staples. It's a plus to have him with us. I can assure you we listen when he speaks."