International: Wiltord out for France

Arsenal striker Sylvain Wiltord has pulled out of the France squad for tonight’s friendly against Russia with a thigh injury.

Wiltord, now aiming to recover for the Gunners’ home game with Ipswich on Sunday, is the second withdrawal after fellow striker David Trezeguet, who is also suffering with a thigh problem.

Team doctor Jean-Marcel Ferret revealed both players’ injuries are not serious, but coach Roger Lemerre does not want to take any risks with the World Cup starting at the end of next month.

‘‘Wiltord has strained his left thigh,’’ Ferret confirmed.