Zidane backing Deschamps

France legend tips former team-mate

By Rob Parrish   Last updated: 23rd June 2008

Zidane backing Deschamps

Deschamps: Zidane support

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France legend Zinedine Zidane believes Didier Deschamps has all the qualities required to coach the national team.

Current France manager Raymond Domenech's future is under review following their miserable Euro 2008 campaign, when they exited at the group stage following one draw and two defeats.

The French Football Federation are due to make an announcement on Domenech on 3rd July, with many pundits expecting his four-year reign to come to an end, despite guiding the side to the 2006 World Cup final.

Zidane was initially reticent when asked about the issue and said: "It will be decided on 3rd July and we'll see whether or not there is going to be a new coach."

Everything

But he later added: "It's true someone who could replace the current coach is clearly Didier Deschamps.

"He's got everything it takes. He knows the group, he knows football very well and I think it's quite in order for him, one day, to take over."

The duo were part of the France side which lifted the World Cup in 1998 before going on to secure further glory at Euro 2000.

Former Chelsea and Juventus player Deschamps went on to coaching roles with Monaco and the Serie A side, before leaving Stadio Delle Alpi in 2007.

Great generation

Zidane believes that France will bounce back from their disappointments in Austria and Switzerland and will be strong contenders for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

He added: "People had high hopes of this team and to see them go home without winning (a game), I was very disappointed.

"I think we have to forget very quickly the way things worked out and get straight down to work to prepare for 2010.

"There is a great generation coming through with some very good, talented players. I think France will come back from this very quickly. Watch out for them in 2010."