Christanval - set to start for France. (Allsport)
CHRISTANVAL SET FOR FRANCE DEBUT
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France defender Philippe Christanval will be given
his competitive debut for the world champions in their make or break Group A
clash against Denmark on Tuesday.
The Barcelona defender, who has only appeared in friendlies for Roger
Lemerre's side, was about to make his bow against Uruguay when Frank Lebouef was
injured.
And although Lemerre sent on Vincent Candela instead, the former Monaco man
should make his first full World Cup appearance against the Danes.
"When Frank Leboeuf was injured, the coach wanted me to warm up," he said.
"He then changed his mind and picked Vincent Candela, perhaps a tactical
choice.
"I respect this choice completely since Vincent had a very good match.
"I did not have an explanation, but I know that the selection was made for
the good of the team. That is essential.
"But I'm prepared. The coach can count on me.
"Since the beginning of the competition, I've prepare for all the matches as
if I was going to be first-choice.
"I've dreamt of this kind of match since I was very young.
"If that arrives, I will be the happiest person in the world.
"But things had been well explained from the start.
"I knew that I was going to be on the bench."
Although Christanval, and probably the talismanic Zinedine Zidane, could be
introduced to the side, the stopper felt that Lemerre will probably retain the
same tactics.
But one things was sure - the emphasis has to be on attack with Les Blues
needing a win by a two-goal margin to progress.
"I think we will play in the same formation but with more desire than
before," he said.
"It will be necessary to score twice. We had chances, but no success against
Senegal and the Uruguayans.
"Denmark are a good team and difficult to play against.
"We did not have any success so far, but we have the best attackers in
Europe.
"We trust them."
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