Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has responded to criticism as Real Madrid back away from move for France international
Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool
Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool(Image: Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images)
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Ibrahima Konate has vowed to "fight back" after a torrid run of form as it emerged Real Madrid have ended their interest in signing the Liverpool centre-back. Konate is one of several Reds players to have suffered a significant dip in displays in recent weeks with Arne Slot's side having experienced a horrific run of nine defeats in 12 games in all competitions.
The France international has been substituted early in the second half in each of the last two games as Liverpool followed a 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League with a dreadful 4-1 Champions League loss to PSV Eindhoven at Anfield on Wednesday.
And Konate took to social media to send a message to Reds supporters ahead of Sunday's crucial trip to West Ham United.
"We have to take this moment on the chest," said Konate. "Criticism is part of football, and we’ll fight back every time and come through this storm. In these moments, the fans matter most.
"The ones who stand with us in the good times and the bad - the ones who sing for us even in the difficult moments!
"Your voice and your support mean everything to us. We know we need to improve and we’ll keep fighting for you. Always."
Konate is out of contract at the end of the season and, with talks over a new deal at Liverpool having yet to reach a resolution, will be able to talk to clubs from abroad from January 1.
However, multiple reports out of Spain on Friday morning have indicated long-term suitors Real Madrid have made it clear to the Reds they will not be pursuing a free transfer for the 26-year-old next summer.