We had a lack of aggression and concentration but that is normal. It was more about solidarity.
Advertisement
“I just want to reconfirm that the security apparatus and the people that advise us say that there is no material risk so the game should go ahead”, he said.
And Deschamps confirmed after the conclusion of the match that Martial picked up a foot problem and that is why he was replaced by Antoine Griezmann just after the hour mark. “To compete. To show that we remain strong and united”.
“We were all united in this moment of communion, which obviously lifts the spirits because you feel it in your heart”.
While paying tribute to England, Deschamps singled out Lassana Diara, who lost his cousin in the terrorist attacks but insisted on staying in the squad, and was given a standing ovation when he made a substitute appearance 20 minutes from full-time.
Roy Hodgson has blooded a string of youngsters since taking over as England boss in 2012, including Jack Butland, Dele Alli, Harry Kane, John Stones and Raheem Sterling. He didn’t ask me for anything special.
“I put a lot of trust into him and he puts a lot of trust into me”.
French daily newspaper Libération poked fun at the traditional rivalry between the two countries, with a headline that read: “Scoop: The English love us”.
The players wore black armbands and broke with usual protocol by mixing together while the minute’s silence was observed around the centre circle, embracing the football family ethic.
Blaise Matuidi (France midfielder): “It was a very moving occasion, of the kind I hope we never have to have again”. “It’s really hard to express our sentiments because it’s something that has really affected the French people”. However, France manager Didier Deschamps revealed after last night’s game that Martial’s injury was just a knock, although he said the player was in quite a bit of pain. “But it’s France that has to live through these disgusting moments”.
The words to the anthem were displayed on the stadium’s big screen as the music was played by an on-pitch band, while England fans in the east stand held aloft cards that created a vast mosaic of the French blue, white and red “Tricolore”.
Advertisement
Defending champion Paris Saint-Germain will play Saturday, but will be away from home at Lorient, while the weekend’s last game will be Saint-Etienne against Marseille on Sunday.
