England players will face familiar foes on Wednesday night as several of their opponents ply their trade in the Premier League.
Emi Martinez, Argentina's goalkeeper, has played alongside Ezri Konsa at Villa Park since 2020, and Konsa knows him very well. Konsa has praised Martinez as a 'fantastic keeper' and has learned from his 'mentality and the way he wants to win' during their time together at the club.
Despite his familiarity with Martinez, Konsa is aware that there will be no friends on the pitch. He has not had a chance to speak to Martinez recently and does not expect to until they face off on Wednesday.
The England squad has not had a chance to watch any of Argentina's games before the semi-final, but Konsa expects that to change before the match. He believes that Argentina has a 'great mindset and great mentality' and that England will have to be ready to overcome them.
Konsa has been a key figure for England at the World Cup so far, starting all six matches and filling in at right-back when needed. He has no problem with playing at right-back again on Wednesday and is comfortable in the position.
Reece James, who returned from injury in the quarter-final against Norway, could be back in the starting XI at right-back in the semis. If so, he will face off against Enzo Fernandez, a teammate from Chelsea, who will be lining up for Argentina.
England coach Thomas Tuchel has a full squad to choose from for the semi-final, apart from Jordan Henderson who is recovering from a broken arm suffered in celebrating the last 16 win over Mexico.
Konsa has been an unsung hero for England so far at the World Cup, and he will be looking to continue his good form against Argentina on Wednesday.
The semi-final match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams having a strong lineup and a lot to play for.
