The French team doctor has confirmed that Henry's ankle injury needs rest, and Arsenal are expecting the striker back in London this week. Anelka has been called up to replace him.

The French doctor has also commented on complaints about the journey to Australia, saying that associated health risks have been grossly exagerrated, and that the greatest risk is jetlag on the way back. "We will travel in optimal conditions", said Doctor Ferret (the FFF have hired a private jet for the squad), "and I think there was too much fuss and controversy made around the game. Those who are moaning today should have done it a year ago."

Meanwhile the Frogaroo match faces a new threat. The Australian players are threatening to pull out, in a row over their fees. This friendly is set to make someone a great deal of money, but it's not Soccer Australia. They get about an eighth of it (less than a million pounds), and understandably want to be able to use some of that on developing the game in Australia, never mind flying the players back to Oz for the game.