(GSM) – France boss Laurent Blanc has revealed that Olympique Marseille midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa still remains an option for his side despite his lack of action at club level.
The 23-year-old, who has yet to play this season, refused to turn out for the French Champions as he aims to force a move away from the club.
Premier League side Newcastle along with Bundesliga giants Werder Bremen are in the hunt for the talented playmaker.
France kick-start their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign against Belarus and Bosnia-Herzegovina next month but Blanc sees Ben Arfa as a key player, regardless of his club exile.
“Not selectable? Says who? Ben Arfa has been pre-selected for the matches in September. He is a good lad,” Blanc said after being questioned on his selection.
The meeting with Belarus will be the first competitive fixture for the national side since the French Football Federation imposed bans on four players for their part in a training ground boycott during this summer’s World Cup.
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SoccerNews
Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.
You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.