Sakho Set to Captain France
Although some sections of the Reds support will raise a quizzical eyebrow at this news, France coach Didier Deschamps is set to hand Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho the captain’s armband for their upcoming friendly with Norway.
The former PSG man, who became nothing short of a national hero as his brace in the 3-0 win over the Ukraine in the second leg of their play-off secured his countries spot in this summers show-piece event. Sakho is no stranger to the responsibility that comes along with being captain, but this will still be seen as a massive test for the 24-year old on the back of a less than assured opening season with the Anfield outfit and ahead of what’s sure to be an interesting tournament for Les Bleus.
Sakho was on the peripherals of the national team before making the switch to Liverpool last summer and his work at Anfield has obviously caught the eye of Deschamps.
With regular skipper Hugo Lloris set to be rested, Deschamps confirmed that Sakho would be handed the armband in his pre-match press conference. “It’s a mix of things related to what he does on the field and what he also gives off the pitch” said the manager. “It’s something natural about him, I don’t want to restrict him, quite the opposite.”
he should be captain full time. never really bought into the idea of a keeper being captain. should be a defender or midfielder. a keeper can’t get about the pitch & talk to his players in the heat of battle. well done sakho. good luck for the World Cup. Y.N.W.A
Ok I see it is for a long term thing… He has the potential to be one of the best… but ever since is injury he has not reached the same level of quality as he had before it.
I think Sakho is still a bit young and inexperienced to be full time captain of a team like France, but I agree with you about goalkeepers. Hugo Lloris as skipper is a bit of a joke…
I’m sure he’s a future candidate, but I don’t think he’s ready quite yet. Either way, it’ll be a good learning experience for him.
he was PSG’s captain from the age of 17 Steven before he joined Liverpool. at 23-24 now he’s got 6 years experience. and as deschamps said it the things he does on & off the field. we don’t know the type of man he is personally. but he must command respect from his piers in the France squad or you would hear rumblings from the French media. but they seem to be happy with his appointment also. Y.N.W.A
Don’t have any qualms with him being captain personally, but I think he’s kinda young for the job to be honest.
Being the captain of a team like PSG when they weren’t a European superpower is one thing, but leading a national side is a complete other.
that’s why i love these pages steven. the difference’s of opinions. i don’t think 24’s that young myself. i’m 32 before ya start thinking I’m about 16. ha. i just think life experience makes your age. not the number. but great sharing opinions with ya Steven. i’m sure we’ll agree/disagree on other article’s in the future. Y.N.W.A
Vive le difference!