Domenech tries to explain away Benzema controversy

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

CHATEL-SAINT-DENIS, Switzerland (AFP) — France coach Raymond Domenech moved on Saturday to try and diffuse the controversy surrounding his refusal to send France player of the year Karim Benzema on during the 4-1 humiliation by Holland in their Euro 2008 Group C clash.

To some consternation Domenech opted to send on Nicolas Anelka and then more controversially the inexperienced Bafetimbi Gomis - winning his fourth cap - during the second-half while 12-times capped Benzema kicked his heels on the bench.

"I wanted someone who would keep the Dutch deep and bring into play more the three players in the centre of the pitch and offered us more movement all round," explained Domenech.

"It was a question of managing the squad, of young players and of organisation,...