Didier Deschamps says he omitted both Alexandre Lacazette and Anthony Martial from France World Cup squad because there is too many striking options to choose from.
Both players were left on the stand-by lift for this summer’s World Cup in Russia, despite the Arsenal forward scoring eight goals in his last 10 appearances after returning from injury.
Martial’s absence was less surprising, as he has fallen out of favour under Jose Mourinho in recent weeks and even picking up a knee injury ahead of the FA Cup final.
Both players had impressed in friendlies against Germany at the end of last year, but Deschamps felt they were surplus to requirements given the abundance of firepower France has.
Deschamps told reporters: ‘They were good against Germany, but the whole team were. And it’s still a friendly match, even if it’s Germany.
‘I have had these two players in several situations, as starters and substitutes.
‘I have a complete analysis based on what they have shown me and the role they could have in the squad at the World Cup. Alex was injured in March, Anthony was back.
‘There is especially strong competition. I consider Giroud, Griezmann, Mbappe and Fekir as axial strikers, even if they can play in other positions.
‘Just watch Mbappe’s performance in this position against Russia recently. I think there is no point in accumulating multiple players in the same position.’
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Although Mbappe has mostly played off the left wing for PSG this season, and Fekir plays a more deeper central attacking midfield role for Lyon, Deschamps is of the belief that both are more capable options as strikers.
