The French Football Federation was today trying to play down reports of a bust-up between the players and the coach, Raymond Domenech, ahead of Wednesday's crucial World Cup qualifier in Serbia. Les Bleus' hopes of automatic qualification for South Africa 2010 could rest on the outcome in Belgrade with France knowing defeat will mean finishing top in Group Seven is no longer a possibility.
Domenech's side have been the architects of their own downfall with another sub-standard display resulting in a 1-1 draw against Romania at the Stade de France on Saturday. The spirit in the camp has not been helped by revelations this morning of a pre-match row involving Domenech and his players, led by Thierry Henry.
Le Parisien reported Domenech tried to spark a reaction from his players before the Romania game by questioning their hunger. Henry is believed to have responded on behalf of the squad by stating the players were uninspired by training sessions before adding: "I have been in the France team for 12 years and never have I been in this situation. We do not know how to play, where to go, there is no organisation. There is no style, no guidance and no identity."
The French Football Federation (FFF) insists there is "no urgency" to speak about the matter but the incident is sure to create further questions about Domenech's position, which could become untenable anyway should the team not qualify.
Despite the French camp seemingly in disarray, Serbia's defender Nemanja Vidic claims the visitors are still favourites to claim all three points. The Manchester United centre-half told L'Equipe that being four points ahead of France "does not change anything".
"We will play against a very good team," he said. "But the French are under pressure to get a result. After this game we still have to play Romania. Nothing is settled in this group."
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