France assistant coach explains decision to drop Pavard
Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard has been dropped from France's starting line-up for "sporting" reasons, according to assistant coach Guy Stephan.
France assistant coach Guy Stephan has dismissed reports of a rift between Benjamin Pavard and the rest of the French national team.
At a press conference ahead of France's World Cup quarter-final against England, Stephan explained that the Bayern Munich defender hasn't played since the opener against Australia for "sporting" reasons.
"Benjamin Pavard isn't playing, but don't let that take away from his training, his behaviour around the group or his performances," he told reporters.
"Of course he is disappointed, but it's a sporting decision.
"The future will show whether he will make his return or not."