Domenech keeps faith with Trezeguet

PARIS, Sep 28 (Reuters) Coach Raymond Domenech has kept faith with Juventus striker David Trezeguet for France's Euro 2008 qualifiers against Scotland and the Faroe Islands next month.

Trezeguet, who failed to make the starting line-up at the World Cup and missed France's defeat by Italy in the final, had to pull out of their qualifier against Georgia through injury.

The 28-year-old has scored 32 goals in 66 appearances for France and Domenech told a news conference today: ''We know him and we know what he is worth.

''He is a striker of international class. He is not suddenly going to become a B-rated player because his club was demoted.

''From what I have seen, he scores goals when he plays with his side. It's rather good for his confidence.'' Trezeguet's presence in the squad could come under threat when striker Djibril Cisse returns to action.

Cisse, who joined Olympique Marseille from Liverpool on a season-long loan in July, broke his leg during a World Cup warm-up game against China in June. He is expected to play again in October.

Olympique Lyon defensive midfielder Jeremy Toulalan has been rewarded for his excellent performances with his second call-up after being picked by Domenech for a friendly win over Bosnia in August.

MAKELELE SELECTED As expected, Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele, who had said he wanted to end his international career, has again been selected.

''I can only repeat myself,'' Domenech said. ''My duty is to pick the best players available. Claude is one of them. That's it.'' The French coach said he had not had any contacts with Chelsea since the English champions' manager Jose Mourinho said last month that Makelele has been treated like a ''slave'' by Domenech.

France have a maximum six points from two matches and are only separated from Group B leaders Scotland, who they play away on October. 7, on goal difference. France then host the Faroe Islands at Sochaux on Oct. 11.

''There are six points at stake and we must try take all of them,'' Domenech said. ''We know what we can expect in Scotland.

It will be similar to the match we played in Dublin.'' France secured their first victory on Irish soil for more than half a century with a 1-0 win at Lansdowne Road in a World Cup qualifier in September. 2005.

REUTERS DH RK2055