News'He's showed his quality again' - Joel Matip on Ibrahima Konate
Joel Matip has expressed his appreciation for the qualities being displayed by Ibrahima Konate.
Konate's France face Argentina in the World Cup final later today, with the Liverpool No.5 having helped his nation to a second successive decider in the competition.
The 23-year-old centre-back, who is appearing at his first major tournament on the international stage, played a key role in Les Bleus' 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco.
Konate has featured four times at the tournament overall as Didier Deschamps' men attempt to defend the trophy they claimed in 2018, with Matip a delighted observer of his teammate's progress.
"He's so young and [he has] so much quality already," Matip told Liverpoolfc.com.
"He's showed that now again with the national team – with an amazing team. He's shown the class he's got. He's self-confident, nice, and a really kind person.
"Especially [at] this age, it's amazing what he can do. He's strong in challenges, in the air, on the ground, the pace, [he's] comfortable with the ball – it's everything you need [as a defender]."
On the squad wishing him well, Matip added: "Of course, he is the only teammate left, so there is no hard choice for us to make when he is the only one.
"I hope he comes back with a big smile – this will be a win then!"
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