Cisse tips Nasri to shine

Marseille striker Djibril Cisse believes that team-mate Samir Masri could be the future of French football.

The pair are currently playing together at both club and country level and Cisse, currently on loan from Premiership side Liverpool, and has hailed his fellow Frenchman after the 19-year-old made his international debut in mid-week.

"Samir is full of talent," Cisse told AFP.

"He is a very respectful guy and sometimes I hear bad things about him, but I can tell you that he respects people.

"He deserves what is happening ot him, but he is not surprised.

"I can see him every day at training, I know his qualities, so his performances have not astonished me.

"I am sure he can do more."

Reports in French newspapers have tipped Spanish giants Barcelona to make their move for Nasri this summer, whilst Franck Ribéry and Taye Taiwo are also believed to be receiving interest from Camp Nou.

Meanwhile, Julien Rodriguez will miss Marseille's weeked clash with Lorient with a thigh injury.

The former Rangers defender has been advised to rest if he is to avoid missing the rest of the season.

"The doctors advised me to run and touch the ball progressively in order not to hurt myself again, because my season could be over," Rodriquez told the club's official website.

"So I prefer to stay quiet for one more week.

"I wanted to play against Lorient, but I am not alright."