Domenech Responds to Mourinho's Criticism

France's coach did not wait for long to answer Jose Morinho for his comments earlier in the weekend. Raymond Domenech held a press conference yesterday, in which he explained his reasons for asking Makelele to play for France. Still, he began his comments by responding to Mourinho's words.

"I don't discuss matters with slaves. Makalele is a slave and I am the master. I crack the whip and he obeys", said Domenech. Still, a few moments later, he turned serious: "His comments are ridiculous; this outrageous remark speaks for itself. The fact is that Claude is with us. He is part of the French national team and I will ask him to come as long as I believe he is efficient".

Earlier this weekend, the Chelsea manager blamed Domenech for trying to force Makelele into comeback, despite the player announcing his retirement after the World Cup. In his comments, the Portuguese said: "Makelele is not a football player. He's a slave. He gave it his all for the French team and his coach treats him with lack of respect. How can you threaten a player into coming back, after announcing his retirement?"

Still, Domenech explained the situation, assuring the French media that he did not want to harm Makelele in any way. More, he stated that he did not know - officially - of any retirement announcement by the Chelsea midfielder.

"I did not read or hear anywhere that he was retiring. We were just coming out from a disappointing performance at Euro 2004 and psychologically, Claude did not have the energy to dedicate himself to the national team. This time we've just played a World Cup final. It's all different", concluded Domenech.

Makelele originally retired from the French national team after Euro 2004, but was convinced by the same Domenech to come back for another World Cup campaign.