Nicholas Anelka’s international career is not over, despite his decision to turn down a call-up to the French squad for Wednesday’s international friendly against Yugoslavia.
Anelka, a late addition to the squad, declined the invitation, claiming coach Jacques Santinid did not really want to pick him.
However, Santini, although disappointed with Anelka’s attitude, did not rule out a comeback for the Manchester City striker at some point the future.
‘If I had to make a selection tomorrow or in the next few days Anelka would certainly not have much chance of being in it, simply because a few others players showed their qualities last night,’ Santini said.
‘We will all see how Anelka copes with the aftermath of his decision.
‘I am not expecting anything from him. He put himself in the current situation regarding the French team and it is now up to him.’
‘Some of the players who were on the bench last night or who have been on the bench in our recent matches are first-team members at their respective clubs, and I can understand that they might have things to complain about,’ Santini added.
‘The direct communication or the indirect communication, that is to say via the media, between me and the players is always very difficult to manage.
‘It is obvious that a gap exists between the logic of a coach and what seems normal for a player, that is why I always try to maintain good communications.
‘Every single player should remain true to himself as well as behave as a professional in respect of the national team. Iam always asking my players to have a responsible attitude.’
