World Cup 2018: Didier Deschamp reminds Denmark they must ‘take responsibility for their words’ over jibe

Danish manager Age Hareide claimed that the French team are ‘nothing special’ and also criticised Paul Pogba, with the two sides set to collide on Tuesday

Denmark’s coach Åge Hareide had some choice words about the French national side ahead of the World Cup that he may come to regret when the teams face off during the final match of the group stage.

Hareide, who has managed the Danish team since 2015, told a Danish newspaper that the French side is “nothing special”, that it lacks leaders and that Paul Pogba cares more about his hair than his football.

These comments made the rounds before the World Cup but they have recently been brought to the attention of France’s coach Didier Deschamps during a press conference.

Deschamps responded to the comments saying that Hareide may come to regret his comments when the two sides meet in Moscow on Tuesday for the final game of the group stage. The outcome of which will decide who France plays in the first match of the knockout stage of the tournament.

Deschamps’ French side have performed quite well so far in the competition picking up wins against Australia and Peru. They currently sit at the top of Group C and are already guaranteed a place in the round of 16.

The players of the French national side seem to be more concerned about the possibility meeting the Croatian team in the next round than Hareide’s comments.

“In that Group, Croatia seem to be the most dangerous opponent so let’s try to finish first to avoid them,” said French midfielder Corentin Tolisso when asked about his team facing Denmark and what Hareide had to say.

This sentiment was mirrored by Paul Pogba when he said: “Let’s say Croatia is the team to avoid.”

Deschamps is expected to make several changes ahead of the game on Tuesday but he made sure to mention that Denmark would be given “no helping hand” and that his objective was clear: win the game and top the group.

Hareide claimed Pogba cared more about his hair than his football (Getty)

France are the favourites to win the match with the second most likely outcome being a draw which is the minimum that Denmark require in order to confirm their place in the last-16.

If Denmark cannot manage at least a draw against France then Australia will have a chance to progress to the knockout stage if they can beat bottom of the group Peru.

Didier Deschamps was reminded of what Danish counterpart Age Hareide had said about France (Getty)

When asked if Hareide's comments would "add salt to the contest", Deschamps said: "Salt, pepper, vinegar, whatever you wish – anybody can say what they want but they have to take responsibility for their words.

"It wasn't very nice, but my players know very well what the coach said: they can read, they can listen."

France and Denmark will face each other at the Luzhniki Stadium, 15:00 on Tuesday.