Samuel Umtiti consolidates his position with France
The defender should partner Raphael Varane at the Russia World Cup
Koscielny's injury has helped him take a step forward
Samuel Umtiti has gained hierarchy in the French national team. The injuries to Varane and Koscielny have opened the doors to him in Deschamps' side. He has paired Varane in the previous two games, against Bulgaria and Belarus. And the French press have hailed him.
"Samuel Umtiti has taken advantage to capitalise on the confidence accumulated during the Euros. Now he's no longer being spoken about as a third option, although he's still not a guaranteed starter. He has eight months to convince Deschamps definitively," wrote L'Equipe.
In France the sensation is growing that he and Varane are the best pair possible. Key at Barcelona his important for France is growing, along with that of Lucas Digne, who has played more for them lately too.
