Konate hopes to become a top defender like Van Dijk. Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate hopes to follow in the footsteps of team-mate Virgil van Dijk to become the best defender in the world.

         The 22-year-old defender came to play with the “Reds” this season for a fee of 36 million pounds, which he admits is far from the best of team-mate Van Dijk, but hopes can step up to the same level

         “I can’t compare with Virgil because he has shown the world that he is the best defender in the world,” Konate told Sky Sports. No, I hope that over time I can show this.”

         Asked about the pressure of becoming one of the best players in his position, Konate said: “Yes, absolutely.”

         Konate, meanwhile, spoke of Joel Matip and Joe Gomez, two competing centre-backs, as ready for the challenge.

         “Every player wants to be on the pitch. But I know I’m young and I have to work to get on the pitch.” I was in Germany and now in the Premier League with Liverpool, one of the best teams in the world. It’s not easy to move in and play automatically.”

        “I know that Jurgen knows what he is doing. And of course I want to work and I hope that over time I will automatically be on the team. I will work for this I love challenges.” According to ufabet