Belgian Pro League 20206/2027 Preview: SK Beveren

Belgian Pro League 20206/2027 Preview: SK Beveren Its been a long time coming, but SK Beveren are finally back in the Belgian Pro League. Last time they were here they were known as Waasland-Beveren, but the name has changed but the ground and fans have largely stayed the same. They romped to the title in the Challenger Pro League with a largely experienced side. This year, however, they have a new head coach in Tim Bakens. Can he get the same out of this squad as his predecessor managed? Time will tell, but SK Beveren fans will be hoping their experienced side will help them stay in the league this season. Transfers in: Johannes Schenk (Preußen Münster, loan), Milan De Schutter (Hoogstraten VV), Yoni Gomis (Strasbourg, loan), Cheick Conde (Venezia), Dominic Thompson (Kilmarnock), Leandre Kuavita (Standard Liege) Transfers out: Jannes Van Hecke (NAC Breda), Beau Reus (Hearts), Key player: Lennart Mertens Mertens may be 33, but in the past few years he has been scoring for fun in the second tier of Belgian football. 20 goals in 32 games is a fantastic return and a key reason why Beveren won the league so convincingly. Can the veteran forward now make the step up? He is the sides best option up front, and their success this season may depend on his ability to hit at least 10 goals this campaign. Young player to watch: Chris Lokesa Beveren don’t have many youngsters, but 21-year-old Lokesa may be one to keep an eye on next season. He joined midway through last season from RKC Waalwijk, where he had scored four goals and provided four assists in 19 games. He went on to play 13 times for Beveren, scoring three and adding one assist. Despite his age, he has plenty of top flight experience across the border with Waalwijk when they were in the Eredivisie. Can he push on this year with Beveren and be a source of creativity and goals from out wide? GBeNeFN  |  Ben Jackson