Domenech demands credit for France

Raymond Domenech maintained that "no one sent" France to UEFA EURO 2008™ after his side qualified for the finals without kicking a ball on Saturday night.

Credit due
While France drew 2-2 in a friendly against Morocco in Paris on Saturday, Italy's 2-1 win against Scotland at Hampden Park ensured that the two 2006 FIFA World Cup finalists would both travel to the Alpine nations next summer. However, Domenech was quick to give his side credit, saying: "No one sent us to EURO, as I have read. Italy qualified, we qualified. My players took 25 points including four against Italy. No one helped them to do that."

Scouting trip
Domenech learned of his side's fortune while watching Ukraine's 2-0 defeat in Lithuania, scouting ahead of France's trip to Kiev on Wednesday. He enjoyed celebratory champagne on the flight home, and has given his players leave to enjoy themselves too. "I am glad this generation has reached the finals," he said. "The French football system still works and nurtures top-quality youngsters. [On Sunday] we can rest and celebrate. On Monday and Tuesday we start preparing for the EURO."

'Starting point'
Had Scotland won, France would have needed at least a point against Ukraine to progress, but the game will now take on a different complexion. "Wednesday's game in Ukraine is the starting point," said Domenech. "Every single friendly after that will be useful. We still have seven months until kick-off, so many things can happen to the squad."

Looking ahead
Thierry Henry phoned a friend to get the result of the Scotland game after full-time against Morocco, and said: "My first reaction was: 'Oh! What a relief!' It's a reward for a season and a half or two of hard work." Meanwhile, the 35-year-old Lilian Thuram was preparing to battle for a place in the finals squad. "I won't get in and nor will anyone else if they are not playing well enough," he said.