Saha keen on Blanc France stay

20 June 2012 12:17

Louis Saha is hoping Laurent Blanc stays as France coach beyond Euro 2012 despite being strongly linked with the vacant position at Tottenham.

Former Manchester United defender and Bordeaux boss Blanc is thought to be one of the leading contenders for the White Hart Lane job along with Andre Villas-Boas. But former Spurs striker Saha is keen for Blanc to remain in charge of Les Bleus beyond the European Championship.

"He's a top manager," Saha told TalkSport. "He'll always have interest. I can imagine him being in the Premier League because of his experience. I want him to stay in the job for France because he has been doing a terrific job so I wouldn't like him to go to the Premier League yet."

Blanc has transformed France's fortunes after taking charge of his national team following their disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign.

France were unbeaten in 23 matches before their defeat to Sweden on Tuesday but they have qualified for a quarter-final against Spain.

Saha believes Blanc has the tactical nous to combat the world and European champions.

"It was quite an achievement to qualify for a big game against Spain. It feels like a great achievement," Saha said.

"Technically and tactically we have to be in top form and the manager has to have a big role in that.

"Physically you can be closer to the Spanish players. You have to find the right formation and I believe Laurent Blanc will definitely change his formation.

"The expectation was to play a better style of football after the World Cup in 2010.

Source: PA