Barcelona centre-back Jules Kounde has picked up a new role in the World Cup.

The 23-year-old plays as a centre-back in his regular role for his club.

Kounde is in competition for a starting spot with Benjamin Pavard.

Kounde started in the win over Denmark, as Pavard started in the game against Australia but was dropped after a poor performance in the opening match against Australia where he lost his marker in the early goal that France conceded, before going on to win 4-1.

Speaking at the French team’s press conference, Jules Koundé notably spoke about taking up a new role as a right-back.

Kounde admitted that he accepted that he would be play in that the role before the start of the World Cup, and admitted he may need to improve in the attacking side of his game.

He also described his competition with Pavard as “healthy”.

Kounde said as transcribed by RMC Sport: “I’ve always tried to do my best on the right, I never go there reluctantly, I’m improving, especially in attack, but I’m not reticent.

“On the left would be a whole other position, we’ll see what the coach decides. If I’m to play on the left then I’ll do my best.”