Coupet in French walk-out

Gregory Coupet has had a fresh bust-up with French coach Raymond Domenech.

The Lyon keeper has been seething since Domenech announced earlier this month that veteran Marseille shot-stopper Fabien Barthez would be his number one during the World Cup finals.

Coupet was devastated by Domenech's decision - and has now had a full-blown row with Domenech at France's training camp in Tignes.

On Wednesday matters came to a head whilst on a trip to a local glazier in the Alps. During lunch on the mountain Coupet unleashed his fury in a blazing row with Domenech.

Upon his return to the training camp, Coupet drove off with his family - only to return an hour-and-a-half later.

Domenech has tried to play down the spat, but it is far from welcome news given that Barthez is currently struggling with a calf problem and Coupet was likely to play in this weekend's friendly with Mexico.

Third choice Mickael Landreau is now in contention - but things are far from settled.

"There was indeed a problem," said Domenech.

"Gregory Coupet had the blues for a moment. He cracked. Such things can happen.

"Nobody is making a big fuss about it. We had an explanation.

"You have to understand that the France team is more important than the interests of any individual. The problem has been sorted."

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas is understood to have played a part in Coupet's return to the squad and he admits his charge is finding it hard.

"I had the news, but I can't talk about it. I think the fire has been extinguished," said Aulas.

"I know Greg has big blues. What Greg is living is very, very difficult.

"But it is for the interest of everyone, notably the French team's one that Gregory holds on. It is better for everyone to remain quiet."