Gael Clichy has admitted his disappointment at losing his place in the France national team to the returning Patrice Evra.

The Arsenal full-back played in Les Bleus' win over Luxembourg in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying in October, but was dropped from the squad altogether for the return match played on Friday.

Evra was suspended by the French Football Federation following his part in the disharmony which blighted the team's 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ campaign last summer, but having been recalled to the squad, was immediately handed a place in the starting 11 by coach Laurent Blanc against Luxembourg.

Clichy is adamant he will not be knocking on Blanc's door demanding an explanation but he conceded he was saddened by how things had panned out.

"It's difficult to accept, but it's part of the game," Clichy told L'Equipe. "Even if there is no hierarchy, I know it's there.

It's difficult to accept, but it's part of the game. Even if there is no hierarchy, I know it's there.
Gael Clichy, French international

"I'm not going to lie to you: it's disappointing, it is no fun, but I knew it was possible. I was prepared."

Ribery returns
Evra and Franck Ribery, who was also ostracised before returning for the Luxembourg game, are set to make their first appearances at the Stade de France since the South Africa shambles when France take on Croatia on Tuesday.

The Bayern Munich playmaker admits he may have to win over a notoriously fickle Paris crowd.

"I think there will be whistles, but with 80,000 spectators there it will still be a special occasion," said Ribery. "We will see what happens but I will accept whatever comes my way and move on."

Florent Malouda will also be under scrutiny on Tuesday after a unfavourable display in the 2-0 win at the Stade Josy Barthel on Friday.

"I was disappointed and frustrated with my individual performance but happy with the result," said the Chelsea midfielder.

"It was the same scenario as the first game [against Luxembourg] - the kind of match that offensive players do not like. We struggled to find fluency in our movement."