Why Akliouche? Monaco man is a pressing monster as well as a creator

"If you have a player like that who puts in so much defensive effort – not just tracking back but also pushing forward since he is the one who wins back the most balls high up the pitch in Ligue 1 – it means he is an atypical and modern player."

Those were the words of Monaco coach Sebastien Pocognoli in March when speaking about Maghnes Akliouche. The player had scored the equaliser away to Lyon before winning the penalty that secured the three points. But Pocognoli praised his work rate.