The French national will face England just four days after the tragic events of Friday night.
The terror attacks in Paris had a very personal impact on the French squad, with Lassana Diarra losing his cousin in a shooting, and Antoine Griezmann’s sister witnessing the mass murder at the Bataclan Theatre.
Nevertheless, it was decided on Saturday that the planned friendly on Tuesday would go ahead – as an act of defiance and stubborn normality more than anything else.
Ahead of the game, France manager Didier Deschamps was asked why the game had not been cancelled:
“We will be here with ever more pride to represent our colours, of blue, white and red, our country, proudly.
“It’s difficult to find words when faced with such an act of barbarism. We are all thinking of the victims and families and friends who are in pain, yesterday and today and will remain so. I won’t add to that.
“You know why we are here. There’s not simply a sporting angle but that’s what I will talk about.
“We are proud of being French, and representing our country playing this match in a marvellous historical place and I would like to thank the English people for their solidarity.
“We’ve received it too from around the world. The match will be an an emotional occasion.
“I have always considered it an honour to wear this shirt. That responsibility is ever more important today.”
Well said that man.
