With very little going right at Tottenham since his move to White Hart Lane from Newcastle in the summer, Moussa Sissoko at least knew he would likely be called up to the France squad, with Didier Deschamps clearly having a soft spot for the versatile midfielder.
However, the emergence over the course of the season of a few other players capable of playing in his position (both in the centre of the park and down the right) appears to have forced the France manager’s hand for the upcoming two games against Luxembourg and Spain.
The 22-year-old has been a key member of Lyon’s side this season, and has developed his game to such an extent that teams like Juventus are now being reported as being interested in his services.
As for Moussa Sissoko, his lack of game time was critical in his omission from the France squad, as explained by the manager himself.
He said, relayed by L’Equipe: “He’s part of a group of players who have very little time on the pitch. He already had reduced game time, which has gone down again. I try to apply the same rules for everyone. It all depends on competition. I’m not doubting Moussa’s qualities. He just hasn’t played enough lately.”
Compared to Corentin Tolisso’s 2890 minutes on the pitch, 11 goals and five assists in 35 appearances for Lyon, Moussa Sissoko has spent 1029 minutes officially playing football for Tottenham, spread over 26 appearances.
When asked last week if Sissoko had a problem with Pochettino, Deschamps said: “Probably, but I do not want to get into that debate. His late transfer made him take the journey without preparation.”
Should the Frenchman want to get back into Deschamps’ squad then a decision will have to be made on his Tottenham future, unless things change drastically between now and the end of the season.
