# Assessing Lukaku's Midfield Rating at Inter Milan
Romelu Lukaku, a player traditionally known for his prowess as a striker, saw his role evolve during his time at Inter Milan. Under manager Antonio Conte, Lukaku was occasionally deployed in a midfield role, particularly in the 3-5-2 formation. This positional shift sparked curiosity among fans and analysts, as it tested the Belgian forward's versatility and adaptability. How did Lukaku fare in this unconventional role?
## Strengths in Midfield
Lukaku's physicality and dribbling ability proved to be significant assets in midfield. His strength allowed him to dominate duels and progress the ball effectively through the center of the park. Additionally, his ability to carry the ball forward helped Inter Milan transition quickly from defense to attack, bypassing pressurized situations. Lukaku's vision and passing range were also surprisingly effective, as he often picked out intelligent through balls to split defenses.
Moreover, Lukaku's work rate and pressing were commendable. He adapted to the demands of midfield by harassing opponents and recovering possession high up the pitch, which aligned with Inter's aggressive pressing style under Conte.
## Challenges in Midfield
Despite his strengths, Lukaku's midfield role was not without its challenges. His lack of natural midfield instincts occasionally led to positional errors, as he sometimes struggled to read the game and time his runs effectively. Additionally, his defensive contributions were inconsistent, as he was not always adept at tracking back or breaking up opposition plays.
Lukaku's creativity, while improved, was not on the same level as natural midfield playmakers. He relied more on physicality and directness rather than intricate link-up play or clever spatial awareness.
## Conclusion
Lukaku's midfield experiment at Inter Milan was a mixed bag. While his physical attributes and work ethic made him a useful asset in certain situations, his lack of natural midfield instincts and defensive awareness limited his effectiveness in the role. He was far from a failure but also not a revelation.
Ultimately, Lukaku's best impact remained in his traditional role as a striker, where his finishing, movement, and hold-up play were instrumental in Inter's success. However, his adaptability and willingness to fulfill a midfield role demonstrated his professionalism and commitment to the team's tactical needs.