‘France must play our game’

Franck Ribery has asserted that France cannot allow themselves to fall under pressure in facing Spain this week.

Les Bleus host La Roja on Tuesday evening in Paris on top of World Cup qualification group I, leading the way by two points.

After Friday’s round of action saw Spain draw and France win respective games, Ribery has made clear that he and his teammates cannot allow the expectation to maintain France’s advantage in the group weigh them down.

“We got a good result in Spain, especially with a great second half performance,” mused the attacking midfielder to reporters this week.

“We have to play a great game on Tuesday and play with freedom. We will be no use under pressure.

“We have to play our game.”

Ribery was also asked of the continued scrutiny that Karim Benzema finds himself under for his France form.

“It’s a little issue, he is a player who works hard for the team.”