Deschamps is fit and ready

Deschamps fit to direct French proceedings

Euro 2000 is almost upon us and French midfielder Didier Deschamps is raring to go, despite an arduous season in the English Premiership.

The French World Cup-winning skipper has taken time to settle with club side Chelsea and with their failure to qualify for the Champions League, speculation is rife concerning his future.

But Deschamps, currently preparing for Euro 2000 with the national team, doesn't see any reason for leaving Stamford Bridge.

He does admit, though, that it has taken him time to adjust to life in England following his £3m move from Juventus in June last year.

The English game is faster and you don't have much time on the ball

Didier Deschamps

"After five years in Italy, I had to change my game," he said.

"I was used to having Zinedine Zidane in front of me and we had a special system. I have had to adapt to something new and it is normal for players to find that a bit strange."

Deschamps ready for action

"The English game is faster and you don't have much time on the ball. In Italy the build-up tends to be a bit slower and the game is more tactical.

"Also, I was used to stopping for a few days around Christmas but here I had to play on. I felt a bit tired at the time but I am fine now."

French supporters may be concerned their midfield engine may be suffering this summer but Deschamps is adamant he will be up to the challenge.

"I have played 46 games so far this year and managed to stay fit."

Enough said.