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Updated Thursday July 13, 2000, 10:03 PM GMT Laurent Blanc
Won't be looking forward to returning to face his club colleagues after the Euro 2000 Final. How does he explain to so many Italians his commanding role in France's win? As well as his usual dominance at the back - one defensive header in particular stood out - he moved into attack in the final minutes and his presence helped confuse the Azzurri defence enough to concede two goals. Scored a goal against Denmark and showed his usual class. Was given a harder task when facing Jan Koller against the Czechs but looked as strong on the ball as usual. A veteran defender who has earned over 80 caps since his debut in 1989. His experience is second to none having played in the 92 and 96 European Championship finals and the French World Cup winning team of 98. He has played in eight Euro 2000 qualifiers and will be looking to make a big impact in the finals after his controversial sending of in France 98 meant he missed the World Cup final. Le Blanc currently plays in Italy with Inter Milan and has gained experience from playing around Europe for other big clubs such as Napoli, Barcelona and Marseille. Another quiet game in the middle in the quarter-finals as the Spanish looked to come from deep and wide and unsettle the French central defence. Was forced to make a couple of timely interceptions as Guardiola and Etxeberria peppered Barthez's goal with crosses in the second half. Held firm against Portugal and did well to hold Nuno Gomes after his blistering start.
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