- Maxence Lacroix jumps ahead of Liverpool star
- Crystal Palace star could be a starter for France
- Two Eagles in Les Bleus’ World Cup squad
Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is making a massive impact on the international stage, with reports suggesting he may have just jumped ahead of departing Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate in the France national team pecking order.
As Les Bleus ramp up their final preparations for the World Cup, Didier Deschamps has some major selection headaches at the back. They are working entirely in the Eagles’ centre-back’s favour.
While Arsenal’s William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano remain Deschamps’ preferred starting duo, Saliba is reportedly managing a persistent back injury that could require surgery after the tournament. Because of this, the role of “first-choice backup” has become vital.
Lacroix rising above Konate
For a long time, that spot belonged to Konate. However, the Liverpool defender, who is set to join Real Madrid once his contract expires, has endured a shaky run of form at the club level that has seemingly bled into his performances for his country.
According to a report from L’Équipe (via Get French Football News), Konate’s dip in form has opened the door for Palace’s star man.
The clearest indicator of this shift came during France’s recent 3-1 warm-up victory over Northern Ireland. When Deschamps decided to rest Saliba at halftime, it was Lacroix who got the nod rather than Konate.
Fully deserved
It is a testament to how far Lacroix has come since arriving at Selhurst Park. His dominant physical presence, composure on the ball, and consistency in the Premier League have clearly caught the eye of the French coaching staff.
With World Cup fixtures looming and Saliba’s fitness under close scrutiny, there is a very real chance we see Lacroix handed significant minutes on the world’s biggest stage. Seeing a Palace defender solidify himself as a primary option for one of the most dominant national teams is incredibly exciting, and it shows exactly what kind of calibre of player that the South London fan favourite is.
