Blaise Matuidi

Blaise Matuidi (born April 9, 1987 in Toulouse ) is a French footballer of Angolan descent who currently plays as a midfielder for French Ligue 1 club AS Saint-Étienne . Matuidi was born in Toulouse . He learnt his footballing trade at the famed Clairefontaine youth academy, as well as spending time at US Créteil . In 2004 he joined then Ligue 1 club Troyes AC, making over 60 league appearances, before moving to AS Saint-Étienne in 2007, after being linked with a host of French top-flight clubs. Matuidi's impressive performances have lead him to represent the France U-21 side, and the midfielder has harboured interest from English Premiership sides Arsenal and Portsmouth . A well-rounded deep-lying playmaker who also exerts his physical presence on the pitch, Matuidi is one of Ligue 1's most prominent rising stars. His combative nature allied with creative nous is a potent mix, with Arsenal believed to be keen admirers of the star. Arsene Wenger 's record of identifying stellar talent whilst relatively unknown speaks for itself, and Matuidi's assured performances for club and country have not gone unnoticed. The midfielder breaks the mould of industrious players often making up for lack of skill with effort- he is technically gifted as well as possessing a good engine, and is the foundation on which the French outfit is built. He goes about patrolling in front of his back for tirelessly, letting more illustrious players express themselves on the field without having to worry about lack of cover, whilst also having a full view of play unfolding, aiding him in his direct passing. Matuidi has represented France at U-19 and U-21 level, where he is currently a regular.