Mikael Silvestre says he is ‘afraid’ that Arsenal centre-back William Saliba will not feature at all for France at the World Cup.
France have already secured their place in the last 16 ahead of their final game in Group D against Tunisia on Wednesday.
Saliba, meanwhile, is yet to play a single minute in Qatar with Didier Deschamps using Raphael Varane, Dayot Upamecano and
‘I would think that Varane would continue [against Tunisia] and I’m afraid for Saliba, that Upamecano will also continue,’ Silvestre told Bettingexpert.
‘The pair did well against Denmark and they need to work more together to get used to one another.
‘Unless France start playing with three at the back, which could be an option for the next round but I doubt it.
‘So, in the central defence, I do not expect any change. That’s not where you run the most so I think they [Varane and Upamecano] can play two-three games in a row. So it would make sense for them to start against Tunisia.’
Silvestre also praised Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey for his performances for Ghana.
‘Thomas Partey continues to shine in midfield,’ said Silvestre.
‘Taking ownership. Link up play was very good. Strength, recovery.
‘He continues to the same level he shows at Arsenal.’
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