Ibrahima Konate shows true colours in pre-match footage of Liverpool star

Ibrahima Konate has wowed Liverpool fans with a pre-match speech ahead of France's Nations League win against Italy this weekend.

The centre-back is tipped as a future captain at Anfield with doubts over the futures of partner and current captain Virgil van Dijk and vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are both out of contract next summer.

And Konate, whose performances under Arne Slot have received rave reviews, set an example that he is earning his stripes with a video posted on social media from the dressing room before Sunday night's match in Milan.

France won 3-1 at San Siro after losing the reverse fixture by the same scoreline in September – a display which Konate, who captained the side in Kylian Mbappe's controversial absence, made it clear Les Bleus were seeking revenge.

“Come on guys, set pieces, in defense and attack, Lucas (Digne) knows what to do,” Konate says in the clip.

“Guys, there's also a first place up for grabs. First place means that in the next round, guys, the second match will be at home. That's important too, guys.

“But today it's definitely about revenge [Italy beat France 3-1 in September]. Revenge, revenge, revenge.”

He later addresses fellow defender Jules Kounde by emphasizing the need for them to communicate clearly, saying: “Jules, we know what to do, boss. Keep talking to everyone a lot, okay?”

Konate will be back in action for Liverpool on Sunday when the leaders from Slot visit relegation fighters Southampton in St Mary's.

The Reds are five points clear of Manchester City with 11 games played and they also top the bloated Champions League stage with Real Madrid visiting Anfield next week.