The Algerian playmaker might be struggling but once he rediscovers his form, there’s no denying he’s among the best.

Riyad Mahrez, who celebrates his 26th birthday today, began his career at French outfit at AAS Sarcelles before moving to Le Havre for four years. But it was at Leicester City where he made a name for himself.

Having helped the Foxes to the Championship title and promotion to the topflight in 2014, he played an instrumental role with 17 goals and 11 assists as Leicester defied the odds to complete a fairytale story by being crowned 2016 Premier League champions.

Last season was even more special for Mahrez as he claimed numerous individual awards including the Algerian Footballer of the Year and the PFA Players’ Player of the Year.

He was also a member of the Premier League PFA Team of the Year.

Other sport stars born on this day

1974: Ivan Campo, retired Spanish footballer, who played for Real Madrid and Bolton (43).

1984: Andy Ellis, New Zealand rugby player, who plays as a scrum-half for Crusaders (33).

1985: Georgios Samaras, former Celtic and Manchester City striker, who now plays for Real Sociedad (32).

1985: Jaamal Westerman, American football defensive lineman in the Canadian Football League (32).