KYLIAN MBAPPE called Kyle Walker “a strange one” last year as the two prepare to face off in a World Cup battle on Saturday.
The PSG star is well known for his blistering pace and will be the centre of attention for Gareth Southgate’s men in their monumental clash with France.
It’s Manchester City full-back Walker who will be tasked with handling France’s star player, as England do battle with Les Bleus in the World Cup quarter-final in Qatar.
Mbappe has spoken out about his upcoming opponent previously, and the quotes have resurfaced ahead of the game.
He said: “Walker is a strange one, he doesn’t start quickly, he isn’t explosive but when he starts to run he’s like a tank.”
With pace being such a vital weapon in both players’ arsenal the two are likely to go head to head on multiple occasions in the tie.
READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP
Walker has already spoken about the upcoming battle, but was keen to reiterate that Mbappe isn’t England’s sole focus.
He said: “The game isn’t England v Mbappe, it’s England vs France.
“We will give respect but I’m not going to roll out a red carpet for him to score. It’s do or die as if we lose we go home.
“I do understand what I need to do and that’s to stop him. It’s probably easier said than done but I don’t underestimate myself.
Most read in Football
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST WORLD CUP BETTING OFFERS AND FREE BETS
“I’ve come across great players before so I just treat it like another game.
“I’ll give him the respect he deserves but not too much because this is England. No one player makes a team. This isn’t tennis, it isn’t a solo sport.”
The 32-year-old has started England’s last two games after missing the beginning of the tournament due to injury.
The pair have faced off before at club level when Manchester City took on PSG in the Champions League.
Mbappe currently leads the top scorers list at the World Cup with five goals so far in the competition.
France managed to cruise through their round of 16 tie with a 3-1 victory over Poland and will be looking to recreate their performance against England at the Al Bayt Stadium.
The Three Lions are also in superb from after their 3-0 demolishing of Senegal.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
