Lemerre issues Anelka challenge
The jet-heeled front-man, on loan at Liverpool from PSG, has won rave reviews since his arrival in The Premiership but Lemerre insists the player still has it all to do to make the World Cup finals.
"He has the qualities of a top-level player, but he has to show them," said the French manager.
"If I have called up Anelka, it is because I want him to play. If he comes on the pitch five minutes from the end, that's not a good indicator for me.
"I hope to use him as much as possible during the game. I know what he is capable of and his true potential.
"Anelka adds something to the team. But during the Confederations Cup, what saddened me most was that he did not score when he had the opportunities.
"That is something he did at Arsenal. At Liverpool, it's difficult to judge him as he hasn't been there too long.
"This game against Russia will not solely determine if he plays at the World Cup. Anelka is a European champion, after all. Even if he didn't play for France in the final, he was an important element in getting us there."
Meanwhile, Fulham marksman Steve Marlet has been called up to the French party as cover for Juvetnus target-man David Trezeguet who is struggling with a thigh problem.
