Domenech ignores Zidane’s plea to recall fit-again Vieira for play-off

FRANCE coach Raymond Domenech has ignored the pleas of Zinedine Zidane and refused to pick his fit-again captain Patrick Vieira for the World Cup qualifying play-off against Ireland on November 14.

Domenech also made his trademark surprise selection by calling up the uncapped Lyon full-back Aly Cissokho, while up front Nice youngster Loic Remy replaces Bafetimbi Gomis.

But it was a player who won’t be facing Ireland who overshadowed Domenech’s squad announcement, with the decision that Vieira, who last turned out for France in a friendly back in June ­ but has not played a competitive match since a Euro 2008 qualifier in September 2007 ­ misses out. “We need a player with Pat’s experience and leadership skills for these crucial matches,” Zidane had said yesterday morning.