Source: Team_Talk
Domenech backs Anelka expulsion
France coach Raymond Domenech insisted that the decision to send Nicolas Anelka home was the correct one, despite the row that has emerged.[LNB] The players returned to training today after they boycotted yesterday's session in protest.[LNB]They were outraged at the Chelsea striker being banished by the French Football Federation after his row with Domenech became public knowledge.[LNB]Speaking ahead of the crucial Group A match against South Africa tomorrow, Domenech said: "The sanction is justified and I support the federation.[LNB]"Nobody should behave in such a way. High level sportsmen have to lead by example."[LNB]Explaining why he had read out a statement last night on behalf of the players after they refused to train, Domenech said: "It was an aberration. We had to do something. The French people had a right to know.[LNB]"What I should have said at the end of the message was that I did not support this action.[LNB]"With the (FFF) president (Jean-Pierre Escalettes) and staff members we tried to convince them it was stupid. I disagreed with the document. What they were doing was unthinkable.[LNB]"We've wasted a lot of energy. There are no words to explain what has happened. I'm hoping we will now have action on the pitch rather than off it."[LNB]Sports minister Roselyne Bachelot tonight rounded on France's World Cup players and told them they had tarnished the image of the nation.[LNB]Acting on the instructions of France president Nicolas Sarkozy, Bachelot confronted the players and then held an impromptu media briefing at the Free Stadium.[LNB]She said: "I told the players they had tarnished the image of France. It is a morale disaster for French football.[LNB]"I told them they could no longer be heroes for our children. They have destroyed the dreams of their countrymen, their friends and supporters."[LNB]Bachelot confirmed an official investigation would be conducted after the tournament and added: "The government has to intervene as the reputation at France is at stake in this case."
