Kerr still fears French

BRIAN KERR yesterday moved swiftly to dampen the unrealistic predictions about the result of Saturday’s World Cup qualifying tie in Paris that have been spawned by France’s list of problems.

The retirement of outstanding players like Zidane, Thuram, Lizarazu, Desailly, Makelele, the suspension of Patrick Vieira and injury to David Trezeguet have sent Irish hopes skyrocketing.

France were certainties to qualify from this group when the draw was made in Frankfurt in December; now they are viewed as vulnerable, some would say ripe for picking.