Arsenal defender William Saliba has been overlooked in France's World Cup semi-final versus Morocco after Didier Deschamps opted for Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate to replace Dayot Upamecano.
Les Blues take on the tournament's surprise package in the semi-final tonight after defeating England on Saturday evening. Victory over Morocco will set up a mouth-watering final against Lionel Messi's Argentina this weekend and provide Deschamps' men a chance of retaining the World Cup.
After riding their luck in some instances against Gareth Southgate's men previously, France are marked as strong favourites to win the clash against Walid Regragui's side. However, they won't be any pushover after knocking out Belgium, Spain and Portugal in the most successful run ever for an African side at the World Cup.
READ MORE: How to watch France vs Morocco: TV channel, kick-off time, live stream for World Cup semi-final
Ahead of the clash, reports from L'Equipe claimed Dayot Upamecano was a doubt for the clash after falling unwell. It's said that the Bayern Munich defender and Adrien Rabiot have caught a cold with air conditioning at the team's base in Qatar apparently to blame.
The pair were noticeable absences from the French starting XI, with Upamecano named on the bench. In their place, Konate and Youssouf Fofana were selected but supporters on Twitter has questioned why Saliba has not been handed a chance after putting in a number of impressive performances for the Gunners this season.
Since returning from his loan spell with Marseille, Saliba has become one of the most consistent performers for Mikel Arteta's side this season. The 21-year-old has formed a solid partnership with Gabriel in Arsenal's defence, warranting a place in France's World Cup squad.
However, Saliba has only featured for 27 minutes and has been an unused substitute in the other four fixtures. Following confirmation of Konate's inclusion, supporters have criticised Deschamps' call. Here's what they have said...
@JefeDvnks: Have they even given Saliba "pity" minutes?
@lekydmx: Saliba is just a tourist at this World Cup
@chikesquad: So Saliba can't even start even with the absence of Dayot. France need to be humbled
@FanNketiah: Saliba robbed of starting place
@nikospolydorou: What exactly is the France (Didier Deschamps) manager's problem with William Saliba who this season has been the best centre half in the Premier League. France's centre half is injured and now replaced by Konate, why not Saliba?
@MrMilliiaan_: Saliba definitely has been with Deschamps
@Ballerz00689495: He is literally their best centre-back. Didier Deschamps definitely hasn't watched Arsenal play this season
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