Deschamps wants France to seal World Cup place early

France coach Didier Deschamps is urging his squad to secure qualification for the next World Cup tonight as they prepare for a clash against Ukraine this evening.

A win tonight will automatically secure their spot at the mundial, as it would take them to 13 points, six points above Ukraine, which occupies the second spot. That will just make their final match against Azerbaijan a formality.

Speaking on the current form of Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki, Deschamps, who lifted the World Cup in 1998 for Les Bleus, described the playmaker as one with the technical ability to make a difference through his passing or goals.

“ He has that freedom, but it all depends on the area he’s in. We can’t afford to lose a player when we don’t have the ball. There’s work to be done. The fact that he has the ability to make a difference when he comes on is positive. But Rayan also has the ability to start matches and be decisive,” he added.

Since his move to the Etihad Stadium last summer, Cherki has been a mainstay in Pep Guardiola’s squad.

Deschamps, who pointed out the importance of the match, said winning in Iceland, where they were held 2-2, wouldn’t have guaranteed qualification with two games to go.

Although some matches are significant to the other, the coach said tonight’s game could be used to secure their qualification.

Noting that the previous four matches already put France in a strong position, Deschamps called on his lad not to lose focus and composure against the visitors.

He further explained that many players being unavailable due to injuries haven’t allowed the team to develop our rhythm and automatic plays. 

France are currently without Ballon d’Or winner, Ousmane Dembélé, Jules Kounde, Kolo Muani, Desire Doue, and Eduardo Camavinga is still struggling with an injury despite being in camp. This has led Deschamps to recall N’Golo Kanté and Florian Thauvin to the squad.