France coach Raymond Domenech has vowed to stand up to club managers when it comes to selecting the national team.
Domenech has previously clashed with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and Lyon coach Gerrard Houllier after being accused by the pair of fielding players who are not fully fit.
But Domenech insists he is representing the broader interests of French football.
“I am defending the general interest of French football,” Domenech told L’Equipe. “The clubs’ coaches defend private interests of their own club.
“Obviously at a certain time there is divergence. But it is rather divergence between the national team and clubs with international players. That is the only problem. There is nothing personal.
“Arsene played with the reserve team when I was playing at Strasbourg,” added Domenech.
“We have known each other for a long time and I am sure the relationship would be very good without the management of international players.
“I recently met Gerard Houllier in Lyon. I can’t thank him enough, it is true he made me join DTN (French football’s technical officials).
“But I won’t accept criticism of the French team. I think we will take stock soon. FFF chairman Jean-Pierre Escalettes wants a meeting between us.”
