Fiorentina goalkeeper Sebastien Frey has announced his retirement from international football, and he leaves no doubts as to who is to blame for his decision; France coach Raymond Domenech. Frey, who is just 28-years-old, is rated as one of Europe's best 'keepers.
Frey is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe, and was considered by many as the top performing shot-stopper in Serie A last season.
Despite his undoubted quality, and magnificent form, the 28-year-old has been constantly overlooked by France coach Raymond Domenech, and has won just two caps for his country.
He was selected for France’s squad for Euro 2008, but did not play a single minute in the debacle, as Domenech controversially opted to play Gregory Coupet, a choice the coach was heavily criticised for, along with his decision to not call-up the likes of David Trezeguet, Mathieu Flamini, Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy.
Frey has started the new season brilliantly, but he was controversially snubbed for France’s friendly against Sweden last night, with Domenech mysteriously selecting Marseille’s Steve Mandanda, and Lyon new-boy Hugo Lloris.
Frey suggested last week that he was on the verge of quitting France due to Domenech repeatedly snubbing him and, after considering his options, he has now officially announced his retirement from international football.
“After a long reflection, I would like to publicly announce that with the current technical staff in charge of France, I have decided to devote all my time to Fiorentina,” Frey is quoted as saying by ANSA.
“I do not want it to sound disrespectful to the current coach, but obviously I will not return given his choices.”
Frey becomes the second Serie A star to quit Les Bleus because of Domenech, with the other being Juventus’ Trezeguet, who was also frozen out by the coach despite his outstanding form for his club.
This announcement is only going to further fan the flames surrounding Domenech and the France national team, and it remains to be seen what the coach’s response to this news will be.
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