Liverpool fans could have two Reds to watch tonight as France take on Belgium.
Jérémy Jacquet and Bradley Barcola are both in Zinedine Zidane’s squad, with reports suggesting Jacquet could make his third consecutive appearance for Les Bleus while Barcola could start.
And I’m particularly interested to see how both of them get on.
Jacquet’s France rise continues
Jacquet’s international breakthrough has happened remarkably quickly.
The 21-year-old has already made two appearances during this international break and is expected to start again tonight, with Dayot Upamecano suspended following his red card against Italy.
That’s a serious opportunity for the Liverpool defender.
He’s already shown Zidane that he isn’t afraid to step forward, defend aggressively and compete physically, and another start against Belgium would give him even more experience at the highest international level.
What I like most is that Jacquet doesn’t seem overwhelmed by any of it.
He looks like he belongs.
And considering he’s still only 21, that’s pretty exciting for Liverpool.
Barcola could get his chance from the start
Barcola is the other Liverpool player I’m watching closely.
He’s already featured during this international window, but reports suggest Zidane could now give him a starting role against Belgium.
That’s a different challenge for him.
Barcola has the pace and directness to cause problems, but starting a competitive international against Belgium gives him the chance to show Zidane what he can do over a longer period rather than trying to make an impact from the bench.
For me, the instruction should be simple.
Get the ball and attack.
That’s what Barcola does best.
There is plenty at stake
This isn’t a meaningless international either.
France sit top of Nations League Group A1 with seven points from three games, while Belgium have six. France beat Belgium 1-0 in Brussels last week, with Michael Olise scoring the winner.
Belgium will therefore be looking for a response at the Stade de France.
They will be without Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans through suspension, but there is still plenty of quality in their squad.
For Jacquet and Barcola, that’s exactly the sort of game where a good performance can make an impression.
I’ll be watching Jacquet particularly closely
If I’m honest, Jacquet is the one I’m most excited about.
Liverpool have already seen how quickly he has adapted since arriving at Anfield, and now he’s being trusted by Zidane at international level.
Playing alongside van Dijk has given him an excellent education at club level.
Now he’s getting another one with France.
That’s a lot of experience for a 21-year-old.
And if he can put in another composed performance against Belgium, his position in Zidane’s plans will only become stronger.
Hopefully both come through it safely
There is one thing I’ll be thinking about throughout the game, though.
Please don’t get injured.
Liverpool have already had enough international injury concerns during this break, with Cody Gakpo picking up an ankle problem and Alexander Isak dealing with a minor issue.
So while I’m delighted to see Jacquet and Barcola potentially starting for France, I want both of them back at Anfield in one piece.
There is plenty waiting for them when they return.
And with Manchester City coming to Anfield next Sunday, Liverpool certainly don’t need another injury headache.
For now, though, this is a big night for two Reds.
Jacquet could start at the back.
Barcola could start in attack.
And I’ll be watching closely to see what they can do.
By Jamie (The Kopite View)
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