NEW France coach Laurent Blanc will be forced to explore his options for next month’s friendly against Norway after suspending all 23 players involved in this summer’s dismal World Cup campaign.

William Gallas has retained his place in a reduced France squad as Raymond Domenech’s side begin their World Cup preparations in earnest in Tignes tomorrow.

Defender Eric Abidal has urged France not to fall for the Republic of Ireland’s “provocation” on Saturday.

Raymond Domenech today left captain Patrick Vieira out of his France squad to face the Republic of Ireland in their World Cup qualifying play-off this month.