Lyon boss Gerard Houllier has
backed Arsene Wenger in the Frenchman's criticism of the scheduling
of international friendlies.
Houllier is concerned that his Lyon side will play a League Cup
final later this month just three days after France's friendly
international with Australia.
Wenger has been openly critical of France coach Raymond Domenech
for his treatment of Thierry Henry and Houllier admits the staging
of international friendlies has become a major headache for club
bosses.
He said: "I will not be able to prepare my team [for the final
against Bordeaux] because there will be a break up of the group,
not only with the French players but also the other nationalities
and that won't be the case as much for Bordeaux.
"International friendlies are always a pain for club coaches, above
all, when they are so close to an important date.
"I show solidarity with Arsene but Raymond does what he
wants."
Wenger believes France's liberal use of Henry contributed to the
striker's season-ending injuries he suffered recently.
However the Arsenal boss has received a sharp rebuke from the
chairman of the French football federation, Jean-Pierre
Escalettes.
"I have been shocked by Arsene Wenger's words," said
Escalettes.
"I have seen all the precautions taken with the team and players. I
remember, for instance, in Israel when Henry didn't come in when
(David) Trezeguet was sent off.
"Wenger can be upset that he will be without Henry, but we will
also be missing him."
