Toulouse's Capoue delighted at inclusion in France squad

Aug 13, 2012 4:25:00 PM

The defensive midfielder has expressed his happiness at being part of Didier Deschamps' senior side, after representing Les Bleus at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 level

Toulouse's Etienne Capoue has spoken of his pride at being part of the France squad, after being called up for the first time for their upcoming friendly against Uruguay.

The 24-year-old made 33 appearances in Ligue 1 for his French club as they finished eighth in the league at the end of the last campaign, and is one of the fresh faces that new France boss Didier Deschamps has chosen to draft in following the team's lacklustre showing at Euro 2012.

"The word that describes how I feel best, is proud. I am proud to represent Toulouse, my club, and proud to represent my family," the midfielder told L'Equipe.

"I used to look at the France squad without paying much attention, because if you start thinking too much about being selected, you become less efficient with your club.

"Still, it was always a goal. There was always a sadness when I saw that I wasn't included in the past. But now, all the hard work has paid off."

Two players who won't be involved in the match against Uruguay on August 15 are Samir Nasri and Jeremy Menez, after they were suspended by the French Football Federation (FFF) for their behaviour at Euro 2012.

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