Domenech deliberates selection question

France coach Raymond Domenech has revealed he could make as many as four changes for the crucial Group C match against the Netherlands at the Stade de Suisse in Berne on Friday.

Unconvincing start
Les Bleus made an unconvincing start to UEFA EURO 2008™, sharing a goalless draw with Romania in Zurich, and must now strive to kick-start their campaign against a Dutch side brimming with confidence following their 3-0 success against world champions Italy. Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira are both in contention to return as they regain fitness, but Domenech hinted that two more players could also make their first starts in the match. "I have a small idea of the team I will select," the former France international said.

'Small modifications'
"For once, I will be honest and tell you that I'm hesitating over four positions," he continued. "After every game I try to think of small modifications that might improve the team, so this is not a great change [in policy]. But I also think that stability is important in international football and won't start chopping off the heads of my players because we 'only' got a draw against Romania."

Evra pressure
Sidney Govou and Samir Nasri are also believed to be in contention for starting berths while Patrice Evra continues to breathe down Eric Abidal's neck in the race for the left-back spot. The FC Barcelona defender may not have been at his powerful best against Romania, but he did turn in a sound defensive display and is expected to keep his place. "It's especially important to have stability in defence," Domenech said. "I rarely make changes there. One could consider that in certain positions we have reserve players who, individually, are stronger [than the first-choice defence]. But I'll make the decision I think will strengthen the team collectively.'

Goal drought
The biggest conundrum Domenech must solve is how to get France scoring freely again. They have not found the net from open play in their last three matches, despite playing some fluid football. "It's not enough just to play well," Domenech said. "Efficiency is the key and we're having difficulty in this respect. We've been playing good football, creating chances but not finishing the moves off. But we have to believe the goals will come. I like it when I hear the players say we're capable of scoring at any moment. Our aim is to remain solid but be able to score at any moment. I think that's the case; we just haven't found that moment yet."