Claude relishing 'special game'
by Alex Livie, 26 March 2008
Claude Makekele has admitted to setantasports.com that facing England in Paris will be a special occasion for France.
The midfield destroyer has spent five years in England playing for Chelsea and locking horns with the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard is an occasion he is relishing.
”A match against England is never a friendly and it is an important game, even though they have not qualified for the Euro finals,” Makelele told setantasports.com.
”For me it is a special match because of the years I have spent at Chelsea. To play against your team-mates is always interesting and we have spoken about it a lot in the last few days.”
France have made it through to Euro 2008 and Makelele feels a friendly with England will be ideal preparation for the summer.
”France want to test themselves against tough opponents,” he said. “In February we played Spain and now we are facing England.
"France has a squad with a good blend of youth and experience. The squad looks good and is a good sign for the Euro.
"I have noticed that the players are happy and spirit was key to our success in the last decade and I am optimistic.”