France ready for Belarus battle

France coach Laurent Blanc said his team will be in strong mental and physical shape ahead of their Euro 2012 qualifier in Belarus on Friday.

France are unbeaten since losing at home to Belarus last September in their opening qualifier and victory in the clash will increase their four-point advantage over Belarus and Albania at the top of Group D.

But Blanc does have injury concerns over several players, including Loic Remy and Abou Diaby while defender Philippe Mexes is a definite absentee.

While Blanc said his side would not be at their peak after long domestic campaigns for most players, he said the squad would dig deep to put on a good showing.

“It’s definitely an issue at this stage – I had some questions about the player’s physical shape and their motivation,” Blanc said.

“We have done some tests which show that the players involved are highly motivated for this match.”

“Of course, they are a little bit tired after a long season, but we have a group which is still keen to play.”

“It’s a pretty good sign, but now we are waiting for confirmation for the game. I’m told Diaby is full of motivation and ready to play, like most of the players.”

France midfielder Alou Diarra said that while the team would undoubtedly miss Mexes, there is enough quality in the squad to ensure they can overcome his absence.

“For sure we miss Philippe Mexes, that’s true, but we still have resources,” Diarra said.

“There is Mamadou Sakho and Younes Kaboul too – they are able to replace him. We have top quality young players, full of talent, and one of them will be able to show all his potential.”

“It wouldn’t be like the first game in Paris. Players know each other a lot better, we have improved a lot. We are better now, we have had a very good run together, and there is a collective strength. We are more confident of our strength today.”