France still trying to win over fans

Samir Nasri says France have a long way to go before they can win over the fans who have still not forgiven them for their World Cup nightmare two years ago.

France crashed out of South Africa 2010 after a shambolic display under Raymond Domenech, with former Chelsea striker Nicholas Anelka sent home in disgrace.

And although Laurent Blanc has taken over to lead the French on a 23-game unbeaten run, their fans are still not convinced the players can deliver when it counts.

France’s victory over Ukraine on Monday was their first in a tournament for six years, and put them joint top of Group D with England. They face Sweden in Kiev tomorrow.

“Our fans have not forgiven us yet but we will do everything to change that,” said Manchester City midfielder Nasri.

“In France the image of the national team was really bad so we have tried hard for the past two years to change that and we are 23 games unbeaten now.

“We are trying to show everyone something different, and that we are not just players with huge egos and big heads. We understand the fans but we want to give them pleasure and do something special as well.”

In the 2-0 victory over Ukraine, and apart from the first 30 minutes against England last week, France have looked like a team full of purpose and flair, with a real understanding. It is no coincidence, given that an exceptional group of players have come through the ranks together.

“We know each other really well,” added Nasri. “I have played with Karim Benzema and Jeremy Menez since we were 16 and I came through at Marseille at the same time as Franck Ribery so we are always looking to combine and do something special and most importantly play for the team and not ourselves. We are getting the age of 24 and 25 and it is time to do something.”

Even if France do not win Euro 2012, they are looking to build a platform for the World Cup in Brazil and then the next European Championship, when they will be hosts in 2016.

“To win this tournament will be difficult but we are trying to build something to make sure we are ready for the World Cup in 2014,” added Nasri. “You never know what can happen in a big tournament like this.”