Makelele may replace Vieira for Ireland clash

FRANCE coach Raymond Domenech may turn to retiring midfielder Claude Makelele to replace the suspended Patrick Vieira for the World Cup Group 4 qualifier against the Republic of Ireland next month.

The Chelsea star wanted to quit Les Bleus following their exit from Euro 2004 in order to concentrate on club matters.

Apparently, the former Real Madrid man has already told team-mates he is finished with France but Domenech is to bid to convince the player to make one last appearance.