Mbappe expects ´weird´ World Cup reunion with inspiration Henry

Kylian Mbappe admitted it will be bizarre to see former idol Thierry Henry backing Belgium in France’s bid for a place in the World Cup final.

Henry, a 1998 champion with Les Bleus, finds himself in a peculiar position leading into Tuesday’s semi-final encounter in St Petersburg as he plots the downfall of his home nation.

The former Arsenal forward has assisted Belgium boss Roberto Martinez since 2016 and could provide valuable insights into the team he represented on 123 occasions.

Mbappe, long likened in playing style to Henry, anticipates mixed feelings from both sides.

“It’s going to be weird to see Thierry again. He is someone I like a lot,” the teenager told Telefoot.

“There is a lot of respect between us. He was a great player, he inspired me.

“He is French, but he will be on the bench of the opponent. It will surely be weird for him too.”

Another great reception for the boys at base camp last night! #FiersdetreBleus #WorldCup pic.twitter.com/dzHRsCs5sH

— French Team (@FrenchTeam) July 7, 2018

Mbappe has been one of the standout stars of France’s surge to the final four in Russia, scoring three goals and turning in a series of electrifying performances.

The Paris Saint-Germain attacker claims spirits are high among Didier Deschamps’ squad as they aim to return to the final for the first time since 2006.

“We’re feeling better and better and delivering more and more solid performances,” he said.

“A team is forming and that’s important.”