'I almost passed out' - Ibrahima Konate admits Liverpool frustration after losing his place for France

Ibrahima Konate has revealed he pushed himself so hard ‘he almost passed out’ in order to be fit for Euro 2024 and would never be benched if at 100%.

The 25-year-old actually only missed seven matches because of injury for Liverpool last season, as he made 37 appearances in all competitions with 22 coming in the Premier League. However, he started only 17 times in the English top-flight and, after being forced off with a thigh issue against Sparta Prague in early-March, started only three of the Reds’ remaining league games as he lost his place to Jarell Quansah - though that is something he publicly disputes.

Struggling for form at club-level in the build-up to Euro 2024, the centre-back has consequently lost his place in the France starting XI to William Saliba. As a result, he has been left as an unused substitute by manager Didier Deschamps so far throughout the tournament.

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Missing training on Saturday after suffering a knock in training on Friday, Konate was back involved with the squad on Sunday ahead of France’s round-of-16 clash with Belgium. Regardless, he is expected to be limited to bench duty once again on Monday.

Speaking ahead of the game, the Liverpool defender has shared his frustration at his bit-part role for France after a difficult end to the season at Anfield.

“I am lucky to have my own self-reflection,” he admitted at a press conference. “I can bring a lot of positive things to the team.

“My role is to not show my frustration. I’m playing PlayStation, I am speaking with everyone, I am happy to be here, even if I want to be playing.

“I came with a lot of expectations, that’s part of football. I knew what my place was before the first match. It’s frustrating but I know my role on and off of the field.

“A 100% “Ibou” would never have sat on the bench. I didn’t play for a month and a half! I prepared, I almost passed out more than once. The preparation was very short. It’s part of football. It was a good lesson for me.”