UEFA president Michel Platini on Wednesday tipped France as a potential dark horse at Euro 2012 but joked that their progression depended entirely on whether they were on strike or not.
The former France captain told a news conference in Warsaw that Laurent Blanc's side, who were expected in Ukraine later on Wednesday, were on a good unbeaten run, of 21, and their forward line was taking shape.
"I think they're a team that people will have to watch -- if they get off the bus," he said with a smile.
France are hoping to erase memories of a disastrous World Cup campaign two years ago in South Africa, when players went on strike against then-coach Raymond Domenech - refusing to leave the bus for a training session - and a humiliating first round exit.
Overall, Platini -- who lifted the European championship trophy with France in 1984 when he scored a tournament record nine goals -- tipped holders Spain and perennial favourites Germany to be among the challengers for the title when the competition ends with the final in Kiev on July 1.
"The two teams for me are Spain and Germany -- if they play at 100 percent. But if they don't, there are a lot of teams that can beat them," he added.
Source: AFP
