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Euro 2016 Player Profile – France’s Dimitri Payet

While several players have shone at Euro 2016 so far, few have had the impact of the talented French attacker Dimitri Payet. Despite being rested against Switzerland and subdued for the first-half against Ireland, Payet has displayed some sublime skill throughout while also registering two superb goals against Romania and Albania.

 

In fact, Payet's late winner towards the end of the opening game against Romania summed up his unique talent. Collecting the ball 30 yards from goal, there seemed little danger as he checked inside on his weaker left-foot. From here, and with minimal back-lift he produced a startling shot that arrowed into the top corner leaving the goal keeper motionless and the Romanian's disappointed.

 

A Brief Profile of Dimitri Payet

Payet France

 

While the whole world now knows Payet's name, this was not always the course. As a young Frenchman he struggled in the formative part of his career, debuting for Saint-Pierroise before moving to Le Havre on a free transfer in 1997. After three years at a club which is famed for young players, he spent four years floating around the French lower leagues, representing AS Excelsior de St Joseph, Nantes and Saint-Étienne in the process.

 

After securing a £6.75 million move to Lille in 2011, however, his career began to take off. From here he went to Marseille, before West Ham United came calling with an £11.25 million bid in the summer of 2015. He then excelled during his first season in the Premier League, plundering 12 goals and achieving 15 assists in 38 starts for the Hammers. He was also shortlisted for the PFA Players' Player of the Year award, while his initial performances in France have captured the imagination of leading clubs such as Real Madrid, Paris. St. Germain and Manchester United.

 

What does Payet offer as a Player?

Payet France

 

With Payet now at his peak, he is likely to continue improving throughout Euro 2016 and the forthcoming Premier League season. With power and precision in both feet and exceptional balance, he is already capable of committing defenders and scoring from any position on the pitch.

 

Combine this with his vision and range and you’ve an incredibly gifted young man. Put him on any part of the pitch and he’ll deliver something dangerous. He’s a man who can turn a game in a second, and you’d expect him to provide a magic spark in the France vs Iceland Quarter Final on Sunday.

 

Andy Clark

Andy Clark

Founder and Editor at Thatsagoal.com
Andy is the founder and editor of thatsagoal.com and now looks after the tipping team to ensure we are bringing you the best free football betting tips around.