Wenger blasts charity match

Arsene Wenger has voiced his disapproval of France's friendly with Costa Rica.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has voiced his disapproval of France's decision to stage a friendly match against Costa Rica on November 9.

The Martinique charity match, which will raise funds for the families of August's airplane disaster, comes on the back of a demanding Gunners schedule and Wenger is unsure of the French Football Association's motives.

Despite his misgivings, Wenger is unlikely to prevent striker Thierry Henry from travelling to the West Indies after the French international expressed his determination to play.

"Before November 7, the day when the French players will leave for Martinique, we will play eight matches in 24 days," Wenger told L'Equipe.

"So you have to explain to me the significance of that match, other than politics or for the media. The best would be to cancel that game, it is harmful, both for the clubs and the players."

Wenger believes coach Raymond Domenech has not learnt the lessons of four years ago when a heavy friendly international agenda was held as the principal reason for Les Bleus' poor showing at Japan and South Korea 2002.

"We are doing again the same mistakes we did for the 2002 World Cup preparations, when we had the trips to Australia and Chile," added Wenger.

France play a friendly against Germany a week prior to the West Indies trip and, although Wenger acknowledges seven days' rest is the minimum requirement, he fears the extra match will inevitably take its toll on his returning stars.

"Indeed, to get the players back a whole week after France against Germany is a good thing. But when you have an old team, the most important thing is to give them some rest. Now the match is settled.

"Either the French team travels with everyone, or with no one. Having a reserve team or with only West Indies players would be even less significant," continued Wenger.

"Anyway it is scandalous, inexplicable. But I didn't expect anything better.

"The clubs should be disgusted. You should see in what state we get the players back after an international game.

"At a certain time, you have to respect the one who pays you. Doing charity with the other people's money is easy."

Meanwhile, Henry, mindful of his manager's reticence in releasing him for the fixture, believes the opportunity to aid the West Indians was a cause simply too important too ignore.

"I feel a huge joy to go to Martinique. I can't see me missing that match," said Henry, who has only just returned to action after a lengthy lay-off with a groin injury.

"People too often asked me why the French team has never played in the West Indies. So I am very happy it will be the case.

"It is logical Arsene is opposed to that. But I hope he will understand."