Flamini named by injury-hit France

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PARIS, France -- Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini earned his first call up for France when he replaced injured defender Philippe Mexes in the squad for Wednesday's friendly international against Argentina in Paris.

"Philippe Mexes is out for the match and he is to return to his club (AS Roma)," a spokesman for the French team said. "Mathieu Flamini has been called up."

On Sunday, Domenech picked young Marseille sweeper Julien Rodriguez as France are without Arsenal's William Gallas and Jean-Alain Boumsong of Juventus.

Defender Lilian Thuram is also doubtful through injury.

Mexes already missed France's last friendly, a 1-0 win over European champions Greece at the end of last year.

Meanwhile, Argentina coach Alfio Basile, captain Robert Fabian Ayala and veteran Javier Zanetti agreed Monday that Arsenal captain Thierry Henry was the player they feared most in the France team.

"We respect France as a whole. It has players who could cause us problems like Henry, and not forgetting (Franck) Ribery," said Zanetti.

But Ayala added: "We fear Henry the most.

"We know that he's the man to watch, but France counts on team play. They have an experienced defense, a midfield that gives few opportunities, and very fast players up front."

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