PARIS: French Football Federation president Noel Le Graet hopes Franck Ribery will reconsider his decision to retire from internationals. The 31-year-old Ribery has said he wants to spend more time with his family and make room for younger players.
In a statement on the French federation website on Thursday, Le Graet says "this type of reflection, for such a talented player ... cannot be taken in a definitive manner, while he still has good years ahead in his professional career."
Ribery played 81 games for France, scoring 16 goals, and was part of the team that lost the 2006 World Cup final to Italy. A back injury ruled the Bayern Munich star out of this year's tournament.
Le Graet adds, "I am convinced he will reconsider his position, if he gets back to his best."
