Vieira declares himself fit for France

France captain Patrick Vieira has declared himself physically and mentally ready to start Les Bleus’ 2006 World Cup qualifier against Israel at the Stade de France on Saturday.

The 28-year-old Arsenal midfielder, who has not played with France or his club since the Euro 2004 match with Switzerland on June 21, claimed he has finally got rid of his thigh injury and that recent medical tests have confirmed he can appear in his side’s tie this weekend.