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France winger Mathieu Valbuena is keen to regain his place in the international fold ahead of this summer’s European Championship on home soil.
The Lyon player was omitted from Didier Deschamps’ most recent squad for the friendlies against Germany and England in November, following the much-publicised blackmail scandal allegations involving team-mate Karim Benzema.
The 31-year-old has won 52 caps for Les Bleus since making his debut in 2010, and he says he understands the coach’s decision to not consider him for the double header.
He said: “I spoke with the coach and understood his decision. It was a shock at first and I found it hard to accept, but I’ve come to understand it since then.”
The former Marseille player has scored one goal in 19 appearances for his current club so far this season, but he says his performances must improve if he is to secure a place in the France squad for Euro 2016.
He added: “My performances [for Lyon] haven’t been bad, but my numbers aren’t good. If I have a good run for my club, I don’t see why I won’t return to the France team.”
France will take on Romania, Albania and Switzerland in Group A of the tournament, as they bid to secure their third European Championship crown following their successes in 1984 and 2000.
The hosts are on offer at 1.36 to win their group, whilst they are available at 1.02 to qualify for the last 16 of the competition.
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