France legend Lilian Thuram believes that midfielder Lassana Diarra can only get better and has tipped the Portsmouth man to become a leader of men...
Lilian Thuram has announced his retirement from football after learning that he has a heart problem.
Many would call the big stopper the heart of Les Bleus over the past few years and certainly the gap left by the 142-times-capped 36-year-old will take some filling.
Thuram himself, though, has tipped 23-year-old Portsmouth midfielder Lassana Diarra to emerge as a leader in the years to come.
Recent Barcelona man Thuram said: "I believe a lot in Lassana Diarra - he is someone who can bring something else to France.
"He is a midfielder, a role that requires character. He can help other players around him."
With just 13 caps and a stop-start career, former Chelsea and Arsenal fringe-man Diarra is perhaps a surprise tip for greatness.
However, France have an ageing squad and Diarra at least has time on his side.
Difficult
It was unfortunate that loyal servant Thuram signed off on such a low note as Raymond Domenech's men failed to make an impact on Euro 2008.
Thuram, though, has no regrets. "I was right to go. When you are part of a squad, the decision isn't just up to you.
"I think I could have played one match a week, but playing several matches in that period was difficult. That was shown in the competition."
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