PARIS: Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger said he feared for France’s further participation at Euro 2008 after Friday’s 4-1 thumping at the hands of rampant Holland.
As Holland raced into the quarters having emphatically won the “Group of Death” – they similarly crushed world champions Italy in their opening game – France stood on the brink of elimination and must now beat the Italians in their final game on Tuesday.
Wenger, summarising on French television, suggested the current squad do not have what it takes.
“We always had the impression we could score but you can say same of a Dutch side which has scored seven in two games and is a serious pretender for the title,” said the studious Wenger, who said France were just not up to standard on this showing.
“Lack of success is not on based on a lack of quality (in the French squad) but confidence and conviction seem to be lacking.
“There is a little something missing, effectiveness, less of a killer touch. France produced some nice chances but were a bit lacking in their finishing,” said Wenger.
Asked if he thought Les Bleus could get back off the canvas and gain revenge for their World Cup final loss to the Azzurri two years ago, he opined: “It depends to what point they can recover mentally” from Friday’s thrashing.
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