#3 Hugo Lloris:
Hugo Lloris has become a veteran of sorts for France in recent years. Despite being 29-year-old only, Lloris has secured 74 caps for the senior side since his debut in 2008. The Tottenham shot-stopper has recently been appointed as captain of the national side.
While under ideal circumstances, Lloris would not expect to have much to do over 90 minutes, injuries to a number of first choice centre backs have ensured the situation is anything but ideal. Injuries to Varane and Laporte mean Adil Rami and Laurent Koscielny have been starting as centre backs.
Age is clearly catching up with Patrice Evra, and he is no longer the fleet-footed left back of yore, and Bacary Sagna is not world class by any stretch of the imagination. All of these factors have combined to give the French defence a rickety outlook, nervous and prone to an error.
In such circumstances, Lloris’ work is cut out. As the last line of defence, the French captain will expect to be busy as the tournament nears the business end. Blessed with lightning reflexes, Lloris is adept at reacting to shots and one on one situations. He is also capable in the air, and has a good distribution range.
While he has not been taxed much in the opening stages, Ireland will pose a threat from set pieces and the French will be hopeful of their captain putting up an inspiring and reassuring performance in goal.
