Blanc looking to rebuild France team

(GSM) – Newly appointed France coach Laurent Blanc has suggested that a massive shake-up could be on the cards as he looks to rebuild the squad following a disastrous World Cup campaign.

However, the former Bordeaux boss has also stated that he will not penalise those players who rebelled during the tournament.

“Some players who were in South Africa will not be chosen if I decide they are not the best in their position,” said Blanc, who has signed a two-year deal.

“But I shall select them if I think they are the best available.”

Blanc, who was part of the Les Bleus team that won the 1988 World Cup and Euro 2000, takes charge following the most calamitous World Cup campaigns overseen by any France team.

Striker Nicolas Anelka was sent home from South Africa during the group stages after refusing to apologise for verbally abusing Domenech.

Anelka’s expulsion resulted in the rest of the squad to boycott a training session in protest ahead of their final game against the hosts, South Africa.

French Football Federation president Jean-Pierre Escalettes resigned following the controversies, with France president Nicolas Sarkozy pledging to lead an investigation into the affair.

However, the world’s football governing body FIFA has threatened to suspend France if its government interferes in the running of the national side.

Although Blanc said he was “outraged” by the actions of the players in South Africa, he maintained the squad will only be chosen on ability.

“I can’t act as if nothing happened in South Africa,” said the 44-year-old. “I followed the events with great sadness.

“I was disappointed by the results and I was particularly shocked by some behaviour.

“Those responsible are many but it’s not up to me to say if sanctions will be taken. My problem is to put together the best team with the best players. I won’t be the bogeyman.”

However, Blanc refused to rule out the possibility of discarding older players such as Thierry Henry, William Gallas or Sidney Govou.

“We could do it but you’d [the media] be the first to say that the France team is not winning,” he added.

“I’m here to win, it’s a delicate situation and a lot of discussion is needed.”