Raymond Domenech believes France have the advantage of knowing all the Republic of Ireland players.
France manager 'knows what to expect' against Republic
Raymond Domenech believes France have the advantage of knowing all the Republic of Ireland players ahead of their World Cup play-off clash.
The two sides will lock horns in a two-legged tie in November after finishing second in their respective qualifying groups and Domenech is ready for the challenge.
Whilst Republic have impressed under Giovanni Trapattoni and came through their group unbeaten, Domenech insists France were not worried about any of their potential opponents.
He thinks his men will be well prepared as many of them have either played against or alongside members of the Republic team in the Premier League.
"We know what we have to do," Domenech, who did not travel to Zurich for the play-offs draw, told
RTL radio.
"Whatever the opponent, I would have said exactly the same thing, the aim is to qualify for the World Cup.
Another England
"It's Ireland, and we just have to get on with it. The advantage is that we all know the team, it's like another England.
"They all play in the English league and all the (French) players know them. We even have some players who play alongside them, so there won't be too many surprises. We know what to expect."
Domenech is full of respect for a Republic side that drew 2-2 with Italy earlier this month but feels France are good enough to progress to next summer's finals
"Their team haven't lost a match in qualifying and they drew with Italy in their last match, after conceding a goal in the dying minutes," he added.
"With most of their players in the Premier League, they're quite a solid team. But so are we."
