Domenech undeterred by doubters

Under-fire France manager Raymond Domenech has stated that he would have killed himself if he had not learnt to ignore criticism.

Les Bleus take on Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday in the first leg of their 2010 World Cup play-off.

France are favourites to book a place in the finals, but even securing a trip to South Africa next summer is unlikely to please Domenech's doubters.

The manager's future has been questioned for the majority of his five-year tenure, but he insists he has learnt to live with the critics.

When asked about recent, less-than-complimentary comments from Ireland's Richard Dunne, Domenech said: "That's not of my concern. I have to prepare the team for the match.

"In fact, I have long since stopped listening to the press as otherwise I probably would have killed myself.

Respect

"I never speak about the opponents, I have enough problems with the French team. But I respect the Ireland team and I know they are a solid team."

Asked if France's presence in the play-offs represents success or failure, he said: "The objective is to qualify for the World Cup, so maybe I will answer the questions afterwards."

Meanwhile, Thierry Henry expects there to be a fine margin between France and Ireland.

"I don't know what is going to happen but in these kind of games, always small details can make things happen and change the course of a game," said the Barcelona forward. "Whoever it can be, that will do for me."

France have a doubt over Lyon midfielder Jeremy Toulalan, who has an adductor muscle problem.

However, Domenech, who is already without Franck Ribery, remains tight-lipped over the 26-year-old's fitness.

He said: "He is recovering from his injury."