Pires giving up on France

Villarreal midfielder Robert Pires has admitted he is not surprised he is not part of Raymond Domenech's France squad since falling out with the boss after Euro 2004. Pires' form of late has brought heaps of praise for the winger.

"I haven't been selected, does that astonish you? Not me.

"At the age of 34, you understand things. My last chance evaporated three years ago, after that clash - in speechmarks - that I had with the coach.

"I said what I thought. He didn't appreciate it.

"Euro 2008? I will watch it on television. My time with Les Bleus is over.

"I'm still available for selection. But I am realistic. I could well be good, have an excellent season, score 20 goals - as long as Raymond is there, it's impossible.

"Why? I don't know. You have to ask him that question. He asked of me two things: to be good and performing well on the pitch.

"Today I have answered his two criteria. But I have not been recalled. It's obvious."