Liverpool fans could finally get a crucial answer over Ibrahima Konate on Sunday evening - opinion

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Ibrahima Konate has had a bit of a shaky start to the season for Liverpool.It might be a new season but the Reds are having the same issues surrounding the risk of losing players for free in the summer, with it being Konate this time around.The Frenchman has had renewal offers in the past but is still yet to sign one, with time starting to run out as he can sign a pre-contract with clubs abroad in just over a month’s time.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. Konate has said he wants it sorted soon, and Liverpool fans will do as well, with some still unsure whether he is the right man to lead the defence in the future.However, when France play Azerbaijan on Sunday night, they might just get an answer, with the Frenchman being given added responsibility.Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty ImagesIbrahima Konate will captain France vs Azerbaijan The international break is in full swing, with this the last World Cup qualifying game until the play-offs begin in March.For most teams, their fate is already sealed, with France one of the nations who have already qualified for the finals next year.This means that they can rotate their team risk-free, with Didier Deschamps expected to do exactly that against Azerbaijan as he confirmed on TF1.He also said that Konate will wear the armband and captain France for this game, showing how he is trusted to lead the team to a win.This also shows how he might be ready to lead Liverpool forward when Virgil van Dijk eventually moves on, something that has been questioned many times before.When the Dutchman has not been in the team, Konate has not exactly taken on the leadership responsibilities very well, with Liverpool struggling more at the back in van Dijk’s absence.READ MORE: Liverpool’s terrible form since clinching the Premier League laid bare with horrendous statistic Do you want Ibrahima Konate to sign a new contract and stay at Liverpool?

Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images So, Konate could be about to prove in this game how he is ready to take control of the backline and win his side a game, which would only highlight more why Liverpool need to keep him.Could Ibrahima Konate be the next Liverpool captain?Van Dijk has been as good a captain as any club could ask for, but when he likely leaves in 2027 following the expiration of his contract, Liverpool will need to select a new one.Now that Trent Alexander-Arnold is not around, there is not a clear choice, although Dominik Szoboszlai is a player who could get the armband according to fans.However, Konate might be in with a shout should he commit his long-term future, especially if he proves he has what it takes for his national side.It might be rogue given that he has taken so long to decide, but with the defender being only 26 and already having experience leading a team, he might be a good option.