France v ScotlandFrance goalkeeper Sebastian Frey says Scotland will be tougher to beat than Italy when they meet in Wednesday's crucial Euro 2008 qualifier in Paris.
Les Bleus, who are a point ahead of the Scots at the top of Group B, will be without the suspended Thierry Henry.
And Frey is preparing himself for a tough game in the Parc des Princes.
"It is going to be more difficult," the Fiorentina goalkeeper said. "They may not be technically on the same level, but they make up for it physically."
Frey said the French would not underestimate Alex McLeish's side.
"We expect it to be a physically more intense match "
"We expect it to be a physically more intense match and, for that reason, we need to recover as quickly as possible after this game. It won't be easy," Frey added.
Barcelona striker Henry's booking in the 0-0 draw with Italy in the San Siro rules him out of the Scotland game.
"I'm disappointed I will miss the next match against Scotland but what can I do?" he said.
"I can't change the yellow card, so I have to become a supporter instead.
"My team-mates will take the match in Paris seriously as Scotland have done very well to get into the position they are in.
"It is crucial we go for the win at home but we have done a good job in Italy by coming here and not losing."
France coach Raymond Domenech has raised concerns about the state of the Parc des Princes pitch after it was used for the Rugby World Cup.
South Africa played Simoa there on Sunday and Domenech said it was far from ideal preparation for his side.
"It's going to ruin the pitch. We need a flat pitch, without the holes," he said.
"We can't be doing with a pitch where the ball bounces because of the holes.
"With the ground like that we'll have to play lots of high balls - against the Scots. Thanks a lot."
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