France coach Laurent Blanc on Wednesday justified his decision not to include Yoann Gourcuff in the Euro 2012 squad by saying the midfielder's niggling ankle injury was too much of a risk.
"Concerning Yoann Gourcuff, I heard people say that it was a bet" to take him said Blanc of the decision not to include the Lyon player.
"We're not here to try to bet. Unfortunately after a new ankle injury there was too much uncertainty concerning him."
Gourcuff injured his ankle Sunday during the 3-2 friendly win over Iceland.
"This injury is bothersome but it's not just that, it's recurring, that adds an element of uncertitude," said Blanc.
Montpellier defender Mapou Yanga Mbiwa was also axed from the provisional list as the coach decided to use just seven defenders including three central defenders.
"He's someone who I discovered, who had made a really good impression," said Blanc. "In future he's a player who can aspire to the national team. I discovered a man with an irreproachable mindset.
"Unfortunately, we took the decision to leave with just seven defenders."
The France coach added, however, that he had told both Gourcuff and Yanga Mbiwa to be on call should another player pick up an injury.
Source: AFP
