Kevin de Bruyne may be looking to usurp Liverpool from the top of the Premier League this term but the Manchester City star has admitted he was inspired by former Reds star Michael Owen while growing up.
The Belgian was speaking after being named UEFA's midfielder of the year ahead of the Champions League draw, an accolade awarded following a vote by players across the competition based on last season's performance.
De Bruyne admitted he played as a striker as a child and looked up to Owen, who also featured for Man City's local rivals Manchester United during his career.