Thuram retires from the French NT

[northstar]

Juve’s French defender Lilian Thuram has quit international football. The 32-year-old announced his decision to quit Les Bleus in an interview with respected French football paper L’Equipe.

“I have been thinking about retiring for some time,” insists Thuram. “After the disappointment of the World Cup in 2002 I wasn’t sure if I wanted to continue. But Jaques Santini told me not to be too hasty."

But now, after Portugal, I won’t play for France again. I will concentrate solely on Juventus now.”

Thuram, under contract with Juventus until 2006, made 103 appearances for France, winning the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, beating Italy in the Final.

http://www.channel4.com/sport/football_italia/jul27t.html

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Probably for the best, as he was not at his best over the past season. He needs more time to rest, and this will allow Mexes to get into the French sqaud now.

 

[Sir Calumn]

About time, almost that whole French defense was ancient, only Lizarazu left to go now Desailly and Thuram are out.

 

[Virgo]

Boumsong and Mendy will replace him

 

[Sir Calumn]

Originally posted by Virgo
Boumsong and Mendy will replace him

I want to see Gallas and Silvestre getting regular places in the French NT. Mexes should be given a go too.

 

[ShearerM4]

Gallas did really well against England...
Sylvestre is a good player he was just very unlucky at Euro2004.

Thuram still had it in him i think. But others like Desailly and Lizarazu were outrun most of the time.

 

[Rochester Rhino]

It's too bad for him, i think its time for the French youth to start getting more playing time.

 

[SB9Dragon]

Gallas should move into Thuram's spot and Sagnol should play as a RB. If not then Boumsong would be a great replacement.

 

[SLB4life]

wow.... everyone is retiring nowadays