William Gallas is expected to shake of a calf problem and take his place in the centre of the French defence when Les Bleus face Mexico on Thursday.

The Arsenal defender cut short his training session on Monday after suffering the problem but should be fit to resume his partnership with makeshift centre-half Eric Abidal.

Andres Guardado is expected to come into the Mexico side in place of Paul Aguilar as Javier Aguirre looks to add some attacking impetuous.