Soccer: 'FIFA backs us' - FFF

The French Football Federation yesterday claimed to have FIFA backing in their bid to call up British-based players for their friendly against Australia.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham and Manchester United have said they do not want to release players for the November 11 match in Melbourne, fearing they will return jaded for the following weekend’s Premiership matches after two long-haul flights.

But FFF president Claude Simonet said FIFA president Sepp Blatter would back them in any club-versus-country conflict.

‘‘Michel Platini, who sits on the Conseil Federal the FFF’s executive committee as vice-president, but is also an advisor to Mr Blatter, has assured us of the support of FIFA,’’ he said.

‘‘The rules governing the availability of players for national matches have to be respected.’’