Luccin targets international spot

Luccin has caps at Under-21 level but is hell-bent on forcing his way into coach Jacques Santini's Euro 2004 plans.

He admits he faces stiff competition to establish himself in the engine room, particularly as Santini has the awesome talents of the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Patrick Vieira and Claude Makelele at his disposal.

But the quality ahead of him has not deterred Luccin from targeting a spot in the squad.

"Despite the defeat in the World Cup, the competition to get through the door is still tough," Luccin told L'Equipe.

"In the midfield, some players are still among the best in the world.

"I never forget about the French team. On the contrary, I always said so, with a lot of work, I must succeed.

"I know what I can bring. The French team remains the supreme goal of my career. I will do anything to reach it, and if I succeed, I will do anything to stay.

"In four years there is another World Cup but Euro 2004 is in two years and I would like to play in it.

"But now, there is a coach, and I can't force his hand but I am waiting for him. Faith is what allows you to work hard and even more."

Luccin also relishes the prospect of Celta's coaching staff placing trust in his abilities, unlike his spells in Le Championnat with Marseille and Paris Saint Germain.

He added: "At that time, I organised the game, too, but here, the news is people believe in me, and it goes more smoothly.

"I take risks like before but I have trust from everyone and that is motivating."