Vieira backs France to spring surprise

FIFA World Cup™ winner Patrick Vieira believes France could spring a surprise in South Africa, saying the pressure on the squad would bring them together. France go into their opener against Uruguay tomorrow knowing nothing but victory will restore faith in their ability to make an impact after a string of underwhelming performances in friendlies including a defeat to China PR.

But Vieira, who failed to make the squad, is confident the French can put their troubles behind them. "France have always been criticised before big tournaments like the World Cup. It was like that in 1998, it was like that in 2002, it was like that in 2006 and it's nothing new, I'm not surprised," said the Manchester City player. "I really strongly believe that France are good enough to win the World Cup even if they haven't played well in the first few games, the friendlies they've had."

Speaking about under-pressure Domenech, Vieira said: "The manager has been criticised for a long time and there's nothing new about that but I think what's important is for them to get focused on the game."

Vieira said France's strength was that they had so many players who could make a difference and turn games, adding: "That's why they have to believe they can go and win it because they've got the quality there."

The former Arsenal and Inter Milan star picked out Franck Ribery as a key man and said Thierry Henry, the sole survivor from the 1998 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, still had a crucial role to play despite falling out of favour at Barcelona.

"It's hard to pick out one player who'll be really important for the team. I would say Franck Ribery because in 2006 he was fantastic and I think he will be important for the French team," he said. "Henry is still Henry. He's got the talent, he's got the experience and Thierry is one of the players who can win games by himself."