News Focus
- Robin Risser poised for shock inclusion in France World Cup squad
- RC Lens goalkeeper set to be third choice behind Maignan and Samba
- Lucas Chevalier misses out after losing PSG starting spot
- 21-year-old has never played for senior national team
- Deschamps to confirm 26-man selection this evening
RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser is poised to secure a place in France’s World Cup squad this summer. The 21-year-old shot-stopper looks set to travel to North America as Didier Deschamps’ third-choice option.
Reports from Onze Mondial indicate the young keeper will join the group despite having zero caps for his country. This development comes as a surprise to many supporters who expected Lucas Chevalier to take the role.
Chevalier appeared certain to make the squad earlier this season. However, his recent drop to the substitutes’ bench at Paris Saint-Germain has damaged his prospects. Matvey Safonov now plays ahead of him at the French giants.
Mike Maignan will start between the sticks as the first-choice keeper. Brice Samba from Stade Rennais will provide backup as the number two option.
There had been whispers that Hugo Lloris might return from international retirement. Jean Butez of Como was also in the frame. Yet Risser’s excellent form for Lens has caught the manager’s eye. The keeper recently earned a place in the UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Season.
Deschamps will name his final 26-man group this evening.