Sweden v France: Match preview
Updated: August 19, 2008, 3:03 PM UK
PARIS, Aug 19 (Reuters) - Striker Thierry Henry has been made France captain for Wednesday's friendly against Sweden in a bid to lift the team after their flop at Euro 2008.
'It was an obvious choice,' coach Raymond Domenech told a
news conference on Tuesday as he prepared for France's first
game since a group stage exit from the European Championship.
'Titi has what it takes - the impact on other players, the
experience, the willpower to lift France to the highest level,'
he added, without saying whether Henry was now the permanent
captain.
Domenech urged his players to 'show more generosity in the
game and in the relationship with the public'.
France were criticised for an unadventurous style of play
and a reclusive lifestyle during Euro 2008, where they took only
one point from three games, scoring one goal.
'For me, it is an English thing', he said. 'The public has
to be aroused because the players are fighting hard. You have to
be generous to win.'
Arsenal's William Gallas has been appointed vice-captain.
Henry has already worn the armband for France in previous
matches, notably during Euro 2008 when Patrick Vieira was out
through injury.
'(Before) it was often to fill in for Pat or Tutu (Lilian
Thuram). It is a great responsibility,' the former Arsenal
striker said.
'I have a duty,' he added. 'There is a new generation but we
always need someone to lead the way. I have a lot of experience
at the highest level. I know this new generation very well, I
have always felt young in my mind,' he said.
'It is a challenge. It does not scare me.'
As for the task in hand after France's failure at Euro 2008,
Henry said: 'It will not be easy but it is our job to win back
everyone's heart.'
Team:Steve Mandanda; Bakary Sagna, Philippe Mexes, William
Gallas, Patrice Evra; Sidney Govou, Jeremy Toulalan, Lassana
Diarra, Florent Malouda; Thierry Henry, Karim Benzema.
Sweden 2 - 3 France
