Koscielny criticises Deschamps and retires
Laurent Koscielny has not played since featuring in Arsenal's Europa League semi-final defeat to Atletico Madrid in May
France and Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has retired from international duty after criticising manager Didier Deschamps for his treatment while recovering from injury.
Koscielny, 33, said "lots of people disappointed him".
The defender picked up an Achilles injury in the Europa League semi-final and was left out of the World Cup-winning squad in Russia.
"It feels like a hit on the back of the head," said Koscielny.
"When you are in good form, you have lots of friends," he added. "When you are injured... after a certain period of time, you are forgotten about.
"He [Deschamps] called me once for my birthday in September. Otherwise, no. Lots of people disappointed me. Not only the coach."
Koscielny also said missing the World Cup this summer will remain "a dark step" in his career.
He made 51 appearances for France after making his debut in November 2011 and took part in the European Championships in 2012 and 2016, as well as the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
"The injury is one thing, the victory of the World Cup is another," Koscielny said. "I think the victory certainly made me much more psychologically hurt than my injury.
"I think I gave the France team what I could. For me, my injury has not changed anything. The Blues are over, after that, I will always be a supporter of the French team but what is certain is that I will not put on the blue jersey.
"I have a new state of mind, there will be the Laurent before and the Laurent after injury. I want to continue to Arsenal, I want to return quickly. I want to fight."
His last appearance for France was in March during the 3-1 friendly victory over Russia.
Source: bbc.com

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