Is Lamine Yamal being wasted on the wing? Wonderkid told how to reach 'the next step' as Netherlands legend picks Barcelona and Spain hero's best position

Yamal was among the best players in the world last season, operating from the right wing. But legendary former Netherlands striker Van Basten argued that the teenager should be fielded in another position in order to allow him to influence the game to his maximum potential.

The Spanish international has enjoyed a dream 12 months, lifting the European Championship with Spain and then helping Barcelona win a domestic treble — La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de Espana. Yamal scored 21 goals and produced a whopping 25 assists for club and country combined in 62 games, making him one of the favourites to lift the Ballon d'Or later this year.

Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Van Basten said: "Best man on the field. It's actually a shame that he plays right wing. Because he doesn't get the ball enough. If he plays more centrally, he has much more influence on the game.

"Of course he is a constant threat on the right. But I think that if he plays in the axis of the field, he can mean even more to the team. And I think that is the next step. He can score goals, give crosses, put people in front of the goal. We know that by now. The next step should be: what is his influence on the team in the end? Such a good player should play much more in the centre of the field. Which means he has much more of the ball. And is much more important for Barcelona."

After losing the Nations League final against Portugal with Spain, the youngster has headed off for a vacation. Next month, he will return to the Barcelona squad for pre-season duties.