Ibou Konate has revealed that Trent Alexander-Arnold sent him a text shortly after England was confirmed to face France in the World Cup quarter-final.
The imposing central defender has featured in three of his side’s four games so far and has impressed when called upon, while his Liverpool teammate has featured just once in the tournament, coming as a second-half substitute during the defeat of Wales in the group stage. .
Both defenders are unlikely to start the big clash on Saturday, but that didn’t stop our number 66 from sending a message to the former RB Leipzig man.
“This rivalry has been around since the beginning of time. Alexander-Arnold sent me a message saying ‘see you on Saturday my brother’ because I am very close to him,” the 23-year-old revealed to RMC Sport (via Rousing The Kop).
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Alexander-Arnold is one of Jurgen Klopp’s most important players for the Reds and the way he has reinvented the full-back role in recent years is truly remarkable.
However, he is consistently overlooked by Gareth Southgate, as the boss of the Three Lions often opts for Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker in the role.
Although Konate has started twice in Qatar, Raphael Varane and Dayot Upamecano are likely to be selected before him against England.
The 23-year-old has explained that he would like to see one of his Anfield team-mates taste success in the Middle East if France are unsuccessful in their trophy defense.
“I mean France but then you’re going to use that against us! It is difficult, there can be so many surprises. If I have to choose one, it will be France or a team with Liverpool players,” he added.
Jordan Henderson is likely to start against Didier Deschamps’ side after a strong performance against Senegal in the previous round.
Fabinho and Alisson Becker are also still in contention with Brazil preparing to face Croatia in their quarter-final tie tomorrow.
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