"For sure I improved a lot with him. I improved with him because I learn about him. I look how he plays," Ibrahima Konate said of Virgil van Dijk.
"But not only him, I learn with also Matip and Joe because we play in the same position. Everybody knows Virg is the best defender in the world and I look a lot at how he plays, how he thinks, before the game he knows a lot of players.
"I take inspiration from him and a lot of players in the world, but with him I have the chance to play with him and to train with him. I think it’s just the start and I hope year after year I will learn, learn, learn again.
"I hope one day I will be like him or better one day. I hope!"
Konate made big progress in his first season with Liverpool. He looked a bit raw in the first games since his arrival but he went on to become a first-choice player in the centre-back role, alongside Van Dijk.
He was rewarded with his top form with a call-up to the French national team in June, making his debut for the senior side.
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