Mbappé expected to be fit to start after missing training

Kylian Mbappé is expected to be fit for the quarterfinals against England despite missing France’s open training session on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, it is not expected to be a big concern as the Paris Saint-Germain superstar is expected to be fit for the world champions on Saturday.

The world champions began the defence of the FIFA World Cup they won in Russia in 2018 with a flying start, winning their first two games before losing to Tunisia but still topped Group D.

Les Bleus shower their credentials again as one of the teams with the strongest squad in the competition. But PSG man Mbappé has to stand out among his teammates as he is on top of the goal chart.

Apart from scoring, he has two assists in the competition. One of such was for Olivier Giroud before hitting a brace in a 3-1 win over Poland in the last 16, taking him to a tournament-high five goals.

Mbappé has also been involved in each France goal every 42 minutes he has played. 

Commending him for his work rate and achievement, his strike partner Olivier Giroud – who recently overtook Thierry Henry as his nation’s all-time top scorer thinks there is nobody better.

Describing him as the best striker he has played with throughout his career, and the lanky striker said he’s an amazing player. He also noted that the scary thing is that he’s still young and will only improve.

The AC Milan striker also said the best of the young striker is yet to be seen, hoping it’ll come soon.

“We know that he’s going to break all the records. Right from the beginning of this competition, he’s been crucial for us, very decisive and competitive. He’s unbelievable.”

Despite being without Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante, and Karim Benzema pulled out with injury on the eve of the tournament, the recent performance is a testament to France’s strength in depth that their best XI seems to pick itself regardless. Giroud is expected to lead the line, and Mbappé will be given license to roam from the left.

Written by OLADIPUPO MOJEED