Robert says c’est la vie over World Cup snub

Newcastle winger Laurent Robert is philosophical after failing to win a place in France’s World Cup squad.

The 26-year-old was hopeful of a call-up from Roger Lemerre after Arsenal’s Robert Pires was ruled out by a serious knee injury.

Although Lemerre has yet to officially announce his final squad, he has selected 21 players for a training camp with Real Madrid duo Zinedine Zidane and Claude Makelele, who are preparing for the Champions League final, set to fill the last two berths.

‘‘I am disappointed but it’s not a big disappointment,’’ the Frenchman said on his personal website, www.laurent-robert.com.

‘‘This season, I’ve done everything to be part of the national squad and I’ve got no reason to be angry with myself.

‘‘I’ve had a good season with Newcastle and I have to look on the bright side.

‘‘I can now have a good holiday. It’s going to do me good because I really need a break.’’

Robert joined Bobby Robson’s Newcastle in a £10million deal last summer after clashing with Paris St Germain coach Luis Fernandez.

Since his move, the Reunion-born midfielder’s penetrating runs and explosive left foot have made him a formidable weapon for the Magpies.

He has played a key part in the Tyneside club’s qualification for next season’s Champions League, scoring eight goals in the Premiership.

However, the former Montpellier man has an infuriating tendency of becoming invisible during games, and has been on the receiving end of some criticism from fans and his Newcastle team-mates.

When asked about what he lacks to make himself a regular in the French squad, Robert was at a loss.

‘‘I don’t know... in any case, it is very hard to get a place in the team when they are world and European champions,’’ he said.

Robert was positive about the inclusion of Djibril Cisse ahead of Nicolas Anelka in Lemerre’s squad.

He said: ‘‘It’s right that he’s getting a chance. He has had a good season in finishing top scorer in Le Championnat with Bordeaux striker Pauleta.’’