football Laurent Blanc leaves job as France manager

[Rappy Veteran]

Laurent Blanc has left his job as manager of the French national team after his contract came to an end.

The 46-year-old, who has been linked with the vacant Tottenham post, took over from Raymond Domenech in 2010.

Like his predecessor, Blanc endured infighting between players which he admitted had been a distraction before their Euro 2012 quarter-final defeat against Spain.

Marseille boss Didier Deschamps is the early favourite to replace Blanc.

Despite France's disappointing performance at Euro 2012, former Manchester United defender Blanc had initially been expected to carry on in the role for another two years.

However, following a long meeting with French Football Federation president Noel Le Graet on Thursday, both sides said they would take time to consider their positions.

Now Blanc has decided the time is right for a new challenge, and an FFF statement read: "Within the period provided for reflection, Laurent Blanc contacted Noel Le Graet to indicate his decision not to seek the renewal of his contract of national coach.

"Mr Le Graet has acknowledged and applauded the work of Laurent Blanc at the head of the France team since August 2010."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18659024