Blanc seeks fond farewell

Blanc: wants to go out on a high

France's defensive rock Laurent Blanc is adamant that Euro 2000 will be his last international tournament

But the 34-year-old sweeper, who has 89 caps and 15 goals to his name, is desperate to go out in style.

"I did think long and hard over whether to quit or not," he admitted.

"But the French team is my life and it has led me to do things I shouldn't have.

I love Les Bleus, but it is time to call it quits

Laurent Blanc

"It has been my mistress - a beautiful mistress," he said.

"I love Les Bleus, but it is time to call it quits. I have proved my love for the French team and in return it made me happy. It is time to separate."

Blanc is determined to play a full role in France's challenge for the European Nations Cup, having missed the final of France '98 after being sent off in the semi-final.

But France find themselves in perhaps the most difficult group of all, up against co-favourites Holland, 1996 runners-up the Czech republic and 1992 winners Denmark.

Blanc is particularly wary of the Danes, having been in the French side beaten by that nation at Euro 2000.

"The Danes should not have even been there. They had been drinking beer, were far from fit and yet they still won the competition," he said.

Blanc: defensive rock

"But several teams could lift the cup. It will harder to win than the World Cup.

"If we want to win, we will have to produce our best game."

Desailly

Blanc's partnership with Marcel Desailly at the heart of the French deence is pivotal in the world champions' Euro 2000 bid.

Blanc's ability to bring the ball out of defence, in addition to the passing skills that befit a converted midfielder, mean the French can switch from defence to attack in seconds.

It was Blanc who scored the golden goal that put France through their second round match against Paraguay in France '98.

Despite his international retirement, Blanc is far from finished in football - next season he will once again grace Serie A, this time in the colours of Inter Milan.