Football: Domenech tips Trezeguet to restore fizz to French attack
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.DAVID TREZEGUET is back in a France shirt for the friendly international against Sweden tonight as Raymond Domenech's side look to transform their attacking fortunes.
After three scoreless draws in a row at Stade de France and only five goals in six matches since he took over, Domenech has selected Trezeguet and Thierry Henry to find a solution against Sweden at home.
The pair have not played together since the European Championship in June, but Domenech feels their understanding remains unaffected.
"They know each other inside out," Domenech said yesterday. "That doesn't change in eight months. Once the first pass is received, everything will click into place."
Trezeguet, who has recovered from a shoulder operation, is one goal short of 30 for France, a mark which will put him in a tie for second on the country's all-time scoring list with Just Fontaine and Jean-Pierre Papin.
"I have known David for a long time. He is a leader," Domenech said. "There is no pressure on him. The quality of his play will bring the best out of everyone."
Despite France's poor form, a survey by France Football magazine found that 89 per cent of a sample of French people thought France would still qualify for the World Cup finals.
"It's encouraging to know the fans are starting to believe in us again," Domenech said. "We need to please them as they are the most truthful judge of how a team is playing."
Against Sweden, the France captain Patrick Vieira will be facing his Arsenal team-mate Freddie Ljungberg, who has scored 11 goals this season.
"Freddie is one of the main stars for Sweden," Vieira said. "I don't think it's the best he's ever played for us, but the last two or three months he has been one of Arsenal's best players."
The match in Saint-Denis is Sweden's last before their World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria in March.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments