I hear Vieira's back in the squad after injury. Does that mean Flamoney's back on standby?
06/06/2008 16:38
Makelele Calm Over Vieira InjuryPatrick Vieira's thigh injury is getting better by the day, according to his France international team-mate Claude Makelele.
For the better part of a week, the French public have been sweating on the fitness of Vieira, but Makelele insists that the persistent reports that the ex Arsenal man will miss the whole tournament are unfounded.
"He trained yesterday because he's feeling better and better," Makelele declard.
"Now he has to minimise the risks he takes and make a decision. He has three days in which to do so."
While Vieira is all but certainly out of their opener against Romania tomorrow, France coach Raymond Domenech now has just about 72 hours left to decide whether to replace the Inter midfielder in the squad ahead of the Uefa deadline.
When pressed on whether Vieira's exit would have a detrimental effect on the atmosphere in the French camp, Makelele insisted that it would be on the pitch where the big man's absence would be most keenly felt.
"It wouldn't change anything (in the camp), it's on the pitch where there would be a difference," he added.
"But nothing is done. Patrick hasn't gone just yet."
Derek Wanner, Goal.com