Ibrahima Konate has revealed Liverpool team-mate Trent Alexander has messaged him after it was confirmed France would face England in the last eight of the World Cup.
The French defender has started two matches for the defending champions in Qatar so far as the two nations reignite their rivalry on Saturday night.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson scored England's opening goal in their win over Senegal in the last-16 while France overcame Poland to set up the meeting with the Three Lions.
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Konate has been a revelation since completing a move to Anfield in the summer of 2021 and has struck up a close friendship with Alexander-Arnold.
"It’s a rivalry that’s been around since the dawn of time," Konate said in France's daily press conference. "Trent Alexander-Arnold sent me a message saying 'see you on Saturday my brother' because I’m very close to him.”
The Liverpool defender has played against England captain Harry Kane on several occasions and knows his talents, but refuses to single the striker out as the main threat.
"[Harry] Kane is a great player," added Konate. "I've played against him several times. [But] we have to look at the whole team, not just one player.”
Konate and Alexander-Arnold are likely to be on the bench during the game with club captain Henderson set to keep his spot in the England midfield.
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