Didier Deschamps delivered a list without much surprise before the matches against Kazakhstan and Finland as part of the qualifications for the 2022 World Cup. He explained himself, at the headquarters of the federation, on his choices
There are no newbies on your list.
Could a player like Christopher Nkunku (Leipzig) have been included?
DIDIER DESCHAMPS
.
There was a group and a roster last month in the League of Nations.
It was necessary to be in the continuity.
Nkunku is a player we follow.
He could have been on the list because he does interesting things.
It is one of the serious candidates who can aspire to this opportunity.
I encourage him to continue.
But on this list, there was a need for logic and continuity.
When things go well, we maintain confidence.
How did you approach
the absence of Raphaël Varane?
He did not have long physical problems even if it makes two physical problems for him in a row.
This time it's an ischio problem.
We are never safe.
The hellish rates of some players make this happen.
This is not only valid for French players.
How do you integrate Kanté into the pattern of a three-way midfielder that you use?
Ngolo has less games with Chelsea.
It's not bad for him and us.
But “integrate” Ngolo (smile)… He is part of this team.
The system doesn't matter.
If I have to repeat its importance, know that its positioning is not a problem.
How do you judge Presnel Kimpembe's latest performances?
He knows the consequences like the last one in Leipzig yesterday (Editor's note: he conceded a penalty at the end of the match).
He knows he is responsible.
OK Kimpembe does not do everything well but he is one of those who follow the matches.
Maybe a little too much.
But Mauricio Pochettino also has his goals and he lines up the team to win.
Presnel may have less good periods.
There are things he can improve.
Because of what he does in the sequence, he may be less good.
I also look at the positive part, more important than the negative.
What he brings to the Blues is important.
But he gets carried away a little too much in some duels.
It can avoid some mistakes or some boxes.
But that's because he likes duels.
Why did you recall Kurt Zouma?
He's there.
He was at a very large club, Chelsea, but with limited playing time.
Things are going well at his new club.
This situation brings him more confidence and serenity.
Not wondering if he's going to play on the weekend gives him more peace of mind.
And Alphonse Areola?
It remains efficient.
In his last four games with West Ham, he hasn't conceded any goals.
And he had a very good performance in the Cup against Manchester City.
He has lived with us.
It made sense to call him back.
Should we field more young people against Kazakhstan, a less strong team than Finland?
We are here for a clear objective: to qualify and therefore we need vigilance, caution and respect for this team.
We are in competition mode and regardless of the opponent.
Qualification, we want to get it on this match.