France boss Didier Deschamps offers message of support to Adrien Rabiot after midfielder booted from Marseille squad by Roberto De Zerbi

Speaking to the press ahead of two World Cup qualifiers next month — which Rabiot has been called up for — Deschamps insisted that the midfielder could get things "back on track" following De Zerbi's icing out of the 30-year-old midfielder following a fight with team-mate Jonathan Rowe.

An ugly brawl with Englishman Rowe (described by club president Pablo Longoria as "completely unheard of in the world of football") led to Rabiot being pushed out of the first team squad and placed on the transfer list, alongside Rowe (who has since joined Bologna). While Marseille's head coach suggested there could be a path back for the Frenchman, the board is reportedly unwilling to budge on this issue.

Deschamps said: "I spoke with him. I care about Adrien because of what he did with us. It was important to know what state of mind he is in. It's very good that he can be there for the two very important matches." He added: "Even if he made a mistake, I hope there's a chance to rethink things, that things can get back on track. I never write off people. If I can help solve this problem, I'm ready to do anything. Not for the player, but for the person he is. I think it's important, for the good of everyone, not just football, but also human."

At least international football is still on the cards for Rabiot; Les Bleus face Ukraine in Poland on September 5 and play Iceland at the Parc des Princes on September 9, and Deschamps clearly still has faith in the World Cup winner. Meanwhile, clubs like Spurs and Aston Villa have been linked with the midfielder, with a move away looking increasingly likely given his standing at Marseille.