Claude Makelele is probably the footballer of the hour for the French media. And that's not because he managed some outstanding performances lately, but because he is in the center of the Chelsea Vs French Football Federation dispute. Included by France's Raymond Domenech in the Euro 2008 Qualifiers squad (despite announcing his retirement), the player was defended by his Chelsea manager.

"Makelele is not a football player. Makelele is a slave", stated Mourinho after his team beat Blackburn Rovers in the Premiership. Still, sensing that this conflict might cause him a serious loss of image towards the French football fans, Makelele wanted to apologize for Mourinho's words and tried to resolve the conflict calmly.

"My coach's words are a bit strong. He's probably gone too far. But his disappointment is logical. There was an agreement after the World Cup that I would retire. But I spoke with the French team coach and he believes I am still able to bring something extra to the team. I don't blame Domenech for anything and I will go back and play with France", stated Makelele.

More, he wanted to assure his fans that he is very much delighted to play for his country, despite his "old age": "This is a delicate situation because I will play more matches and I will be more tired. But I am in the list and I have to go. The French team is still something important for me. Everyone knows me and I am a professional, I do my job and even if my club is not happy I will honor my call-ups".

Despite Makelele's try to make things better, Chelsea doesn't want to let it go. Since the player cannot win a battle against his own Football Federation, Chelsea wants to step up and defend his rights: "Chelsea believe that a player should have the freedom to choose about his own international career, especially in the case of Claude who has served his country at the highest level and with distinction for several years".

All together, the player is supposed to go into training camp alongside his French teammates later this week, before France's first two qualifying games for the Euro 2008.