© Reuters 2002

BORDEAUX, France, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Christophe Dugarry is pinning his hopes on being picked as France's second striker in Japan and South Korea after making his name during the victorious 1998 campaign.

The young generation of Nicolas Anelka, Thierry Henry, David Trezeguet and Sylvain Wiltord are favourites to feature in Roger Lemerre's squad.

Dugarry, by contrast, has played only four matches since being badly injured in France's much-criticised trip to Australia in Melbourne in November which ended on a 1-1 draw.

"France have had the same tactical organisation for some time with a number 9 and a second striker on the left," he told reporters on Monday.

"I know that the number 9 post will never be given to me. With Trezeguet, Henry and Anelka, there is no shortage at this post," he said.

"My place with France, if I should play for France again, would be as second striker on the left," he added. Unfortunately for Dugarry, Bordeaux coach Elie Baup has used him mostly in midfield this season, a choice which might hamper his chances to be called up.

But Dugarry remained optimistic despite playing a different role at club level. "It only broadens my range of play. I have lost nothing of my qualities as a striker," he said.

Aime Jacquet had been criticised for picking the moody Dugarry instead of Anelka in 1998 but he had silenced critics by scoring France's first goal against South Africa in a campaign which led them to the world title.

Four years later, back at Girondins Bordeaux after spells at AC Milan, Barcelona and Olympique Marseille, Dugarry is again obliged to prove himself.