It is time to deliver for Pogba, Griezmann

Prior to the France-Romania kickoff on last Friday, experts were confident that in-form Antoine Griezmann and Juventus playmaker Paul Pogba will rule the roost for the Les Blues. They even said that free kick specialist Dimitri Payet, will pave way to Manchester United hotshot Anthony Martial. However, over the course of 90 minutes they were proved wrong. It was Payet, who ensured victory for French, who otherwise were lackluster. The match also exposed France’s vulnerabilities in defence. Their midfield too didn’t boss as it was expected and considering the diminutive stature of holding midfielder N’Golo Kante, Rami and Koscielny had to rush to deal with aerial deliveries leaving gaps in defence. All said and done, the Albanians don’t have the fire power to pose any question to the Les Blues. The Gianni Di Biasi’s side will sit back tight and look to attack on the counter. In the recent press conference the coach said that they would not be mere tourists, he might look to draw inspiration from 2015v friendly, where they beat France 1-0. However, an upset is unlikely. Pogba and Griezmann would be riled up as they were singled out to have underperformed in the previous fixture. Des Champs would be better served if he picks Martial ahead off the Olivier Giroud, as the youngster’s pace and movement will be a threat to an ageing Albanian defence marshaled by their captain Lorik Cana.