Clichy looking to make most of Evra absence

Gaël Clichy believes Patrice Evra's international ban could help him establish himself as France's first choice left-back.

Clichy has been a regular for Arsenal for nearly five years, but has failed to dislodge the Manchester United full-back as first choice for the French national team.

However, Evra will now miss five games for France after he led protests of the players against former manager Raymond Domenech at the team's disasterous World Cup campaign this summer.

Clichy knows it will be tough, but sees Evra's absence as the ideal opportunity to prove himself.

He said: "I can't hide it, the door is slightly open. I have a few months, a few training sessions and some games to show that I can settle in to the France team.

"But we are talking about a player [Evra] who has played about 30 times for France, Pat can't go out like that.

"Competition is fierce, as there is Aly Cissokho and Benedict Tremoulinas who are fighting for a spot. Only the best person will play.

"I am eager to show the coach that I can bring something to the group. If I am playing on Friday, I will give it my all."

The defender added that he is optimistic ahead of a new era under new Les Bleus boss Laurent Blanc.

The Arsenal man believes a more attacking style of play will bring success to the team, and suit his game as well.

He said: "It's easy to say, but with practice it is with good football that we can win games.

"It suits my qualities. At Arsenal, we are already playing attacking football, staying organised. I'm not a defender who will stay in my portion of the pitch and contain my opponent.

"I'm an attacking player who is involved. But we have to stay focused and not lose sight of the fact that a defender is primarily there to stop a goal being scored."

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