Domenech resolved to see France in Africa 08

AFP - 6 January 2009 18:00

France´s national football team coach Raymond Domenech waits for the beginning of the friendly football match France vs. Tunisia, at the Stade de France in Paris, October 14. Domenech has only one New Year´s resolution - being spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing his team for two

PARIS (AFP) - France coach Raymond Domenech has only one New Year's resolution - being spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing his team for two "decisive" World Cup qualifiers this spring.After three of 10 qualifying matches in their Europe zone group 7 France sit third on four points, five adrift of leaders Serbia and second placed Lithuania, both of whom have played four matches.France resume qualifying against Lithuania, in Kaunas, on March 28 before hosting the former Soviet Republic at the Stade de France four days later on April 1.Domenech, who survived a vote of confidence a few months back after a dreadful Euro 2008 campaign where they went out in the first round and then a series of disappointing performances since then, wished his squad a traditional New Year's 'good health' but said he would be much happier if they all avoided injury mishaps for the double header in a few months time."French football has only one wish this year, and that's for us to be qualified for the World Cup in South Africa come October," Domenech said in a video posted on the French federation's website Tuesday."I wish all my players good health, and that this year I will be spoiled for choice."There are two decisive matches against Lithuania in March. If we get past that obstacle, it will be a significant step forward. "That's all we'll be doing in February, preparing the players for these two games. We have to accept the players will be involved in league games, the Champions League, Cup ties and so on."But we must be ready. This is where the World Cup begins."France's first match of 2009 is a friendly against Argentina on February 11 in Marseille.