Deschamps: Giroud fit, Pogba to start at World Cup
Didier Deschamps is keeping the faith with under-fire midfielder Paul Pogba.
Paul Pogba is almost certain to start France's World Cup opener against Australia while Olivier Giroud will also be available, Didier Deschamps has confirmed. Debate has raged over whether Pogba merits a place in midfield, with the Manchester United man failing to convince in recent matches. He was jeered by his own fans during the 3-1 friendly win over Italy and failed to inspire France in an underwhelming 1-1 draw against a youthful United States on Saturday.
Deschamps to stick with Pogba
Deschamps, however, is continuing to back the 25-year-old, telling broadcaster Téléfoot it is "very likely" he will be in the starting XI in Kazan on 16 June. The boss of Les Bleus also offered assurances over the fitness of Giroud, who was bloodied and forced off following a head clash with USA defender Matt Miazga "Olivier Giroud has a beautiful cut of 6 centimeters. But he will be able to face Australia," Deschamps explained.
France's other Group C opponents are Denmark and Peru.