Vieira concentrating on Man City

07 July 2010 13:32

Patrick Vieira has confirmed he is no longer interested in playing for France and will devote his time to Manchester City.

The former Inter Milan and Arsenal midfielder was devastated at being left out of the World Cup squad after moving to Eastlands in January and, even though Laurent Blanc has replaced Raymond Domenech as France coach, Vieira has no plans to revive his international career.

The 34-year-old told City's official website: "My focus is on City, nothing else. I want to do my best for the club. I want to repay the trust of the manager (Roberto Mancini), Brian (Marwood, football administration officer) and Garry Cook (chief executive)."

France imploded in South Africa, falling at the first hurdle after the players boycotted a training session in protest at Nicolas Anelka being sent home.

The Chelsea striker headed back to London after a row with Domenech became public knowledge.

Vieira was saddened at the way events unfolded, adding: "I was there watching the games, hoping that France would do well. Obviously, they didn't.

"I'm disappointed like every French person who loves the national team. It was difficult not being with the team, but I didn't have the choice.

"It was a difficult moment. I think France are going through a tough period. We were expecting them to at least go through from the group to the first knockout round but they didn't do it."

Source: PA