French boss rues upcoming tournament

Blanc targets the quarterfinals

By Brian Lofrumento | 25th May 2012

French national team boss Laurent Blanc has cast a gloomy image over France’s Euro 2012 campaign, admitting that he isn’t expecting much from his side. Les Blues have failed at the first hurdle in both of their most recent major tournaments (World Cup 2010 and Euro 2008), and can’t see them succeeding in this summer’s European Championship.

The former Bordeaux man has targeted a mere quarter-final finish, but will surely be hoping for a surprise.

“We hope to be in the quarter-finals,” said Blanc in a press conference on Thursday. “This is our first objective. I remind you that during the last two international competitions that France has played in, we have not got past the first round. That is the reality.”

Instead, Blanc has talked up Spain’s chances as his own side prepare for a difficult start against Roy Hodgson’s England side.

“Spain, I can see them winning it,” he admitted. “I cannot say the same for us.

“Spain are in front of all the others. But after [the group stages], over one game, anything can happen and Germany and Netherlands are not far away.”

How will France fare in this summer’s tournament? Have your say below!