Deschamps reveals why Saliba was chosen ahead of Konate in France squad

William Saliba is having a stellar season with Marseille.

The young defender was picked by Didier Deschamps for the Nations League squad ahead of Liverpool’s Ibrahim Konate who also enjoyed a fine campaign with the Reds.

Konate was pivotal in Liverpool’s win in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup this campaign.

Konate plays in a four-man defence at Liverpool whereas Saliba has always played in a back three.

France manager Didier Deschamps outlines this very reason for his selection of Saliba in the France international squad.

‘Yes, I’m following [Konate], he’s in a team which is competing in the Champions League final and for the title in England,’ Deschamps explained. ‘But since he’s been at Liverpool, he’s mostly played in a 4-man defence. And there is competition [in the France team].’

‘I brought William [Saliba] last time and he always plays in a back 3. It’s either one or the other, it’s very competitive, and that’s very good – it allows for the veterans to not get too comfortable.’

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