France defender Mamadou Sakho has admitted that he is embracing his role as a leader in his side's World Cup campaign.

The 24-year-old was named as vice captain before the start of the tournament by boss Didier Deschamps, and he has revealed that he is enjoying helping the younger players in the team through the intense moments of the competition.

"Addressing my teammates in the dressing room is quite a spontaneous, natural thing for me. I've got a strong personality which helps me to get my message across. I often try to do it with humour; it's the best way to make it stick," Sakho told FIFA.com.

"I've always had a big brother-style relationship with youngsters. When I was young, I appreciated it when older guys gave me advice. You always learn things from your elders. And now I do it too, sometimes – there are players that really respond to that kind of thing."

Sakho is expected to be in the starting lineup when France take on Germany in their quarter-final clash later today in Rio de Janeiro.

Written by
Simon Sinclair