Liverpool star tipped to replace Kylian Mbappe as France boss explains decision

Having captained his country for a few minutes during the last international break, Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate could get the same honor again this time around — with Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe set to be given some time off.

Mbappe has had a difficult time since signing for Los Blancos in the summer. And French boss Didier Deschamps has decided that the best thing for him is not to be involved as France takes on Israel and Italy next week in the UEFA Nations League.

"I had several discussions with him, and I made this decision because I think it's better this way," Deschamps said. "We are on three consecutive victories. We must ensure our qualification for the final eight and to be able to play for first place."

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According to RMC Sport, Konate is in contention to take the armband. The Liverpool ace is one of three options alongside Barcelona's Jules Kounde and N'Golo Kante, who is back in the national team set-up despite now playing in Saudi Arabia.

Konate spoke in a press conference ahead of captaining France last month, making it clear that he would be up for the role. "Being a leader is something that is innate," he said. "You either have it or you don't."

Liverpool.com says: Konate has gone up another level this season with the Reds, stepping up and delivering brilliantly after starting the season out of the starting XI. Coming on at half-time on matchday one at Ipswich Town, the 25-year-old hasn't put a foot wrong. He looks much more comfortable on the ball these days and he is dominant in duels in the air and on the ground.

Konate will hope to continue his good form against Aston Villa later today. The Frenchman will hope to stay fit too. Plenty of people were worrying when he went off at half-time against Brighton but he was fantastic again versus Bayer Leverkusen against Victor Boniface.