Patrick Vieira to Captain France at World Cup – on provisio of fitness

In a bizarre twist in his international fortunes, French midfielder Patrick Vieira has been told by national coach Raymond Domenech, that he will be captain at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, as long as he is fit. This is an interesting turn of events, well, maybe not so much, as Domenech could give the “Tinker Man” Claudio Rainer a run for his money when it comes to making changes, as Vieira was left in the wilderness for France’s most important games of 2009. France ended up in a World Cup Qualifier against Ireland, in which Domenech left 1998 World Cup Winner Vieira out of the team, and naturally the ex-Arsenal star wasn’t very happy about the decision. Vieira has been capped 107 times for his country, and is, apparently, a little regretful at turning down the chance to play for Real Madrid at the end of his Arsenal days.

France famously, or infamously, won that play-off against Ireland, thanks to a Thierry Henry handball in the build up to the crucial winning goal. It was misdemeanour that wasn’t spotted by the referee or linesman, but was seen all around the world. No punishment was forthcoming to Henry, and it capped a decent qualifying campaign by the French, which saw them finish as runner’s-up in the group, as they could not get the better of a very strong Serbia side, who finished a point ahead of them. But now, in a change of heart, Domenech now is keen to get Vieira back into the squad as Captain, as his experience could go a long way. After joining Manchester City on loan until the end of the season from Inter Milan, Vieira has just gotten his first couple of games under his belt back in the Premier League, after recovering from injury. Apparently the French boss is resolute in his decision, stating that without doubt Vieira will be captain if he is fit.

France are in Group A of  the 2010 FIFA World Cup, along with South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay. They open their account on June 11th against Uruguay.

France to win: 6/5 at SkyBet
Draw: 9/4 at Bet365
Uruguay to win: 17/5 at Bwin

France are 16/1 at Ladbrokes to win the World Cup