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Ruffier ready if required

Image: Ruffier: Waiting game

Stephane Ruffier has cut short his summer holiday to be on World Cup standby for France.

Monaco keeper on standby to replace crocked Carrasso

Stephane Ruffier has cut short his summer holiday to be on World Cup standby for France. There remains a possibility that he could be drafted into Raymond Domenech's squad should Cedric Carrasso fail to shake off a knock. The Bordeaux keeper, who is currently third choice in the Les Bleus fold behind Hugo Lloris and Steve Mandanda, suffered a thigh injury in training on Monday. France are still hopeful he will be given the all-clear to remain with the squad, but are still waiting on medical advice before taking any decision. Fifa rules prohibit any side from adding to their squad once the tournament is underway, but the French could appeal for special dispensation should Carrasso be ruled out. That means for now Monaco shot-stopper Ruffier must wait patiently in the wings to see if he will be handed a first call-up into the senior squad. "I cut short my holiday because I got a phone call from (France goalkeeping coach) Bruno Martini," he told L'Equipe. "For the moment I'm waiting but if they need me I'm ready."

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