Arsene Wenger was clearly the target of critical comments made by the head of the French Football Federation, quoted in French newspaper Sud Ouest.

Claude Simonet, discussing the controversial trip to Australia, is reported to have said: 'French coaches who, in their time, were bidding to become managers of the French national team should have noticed the clever choices made by Roger Lemerre, who refused to overburden the Blues with matches.'

Ouch. Here's hoping this delays - at least! - Wenger's (inevitable?) move to the international stage?