The Bayern Munich midfielder is one of France’s prize assets and is a certainty to be included in coach Raymond Domenech’s 23-man squad for South Africa.

France (11/2 to be eliminated in the semi-finals) struggled to qualify for the World Cup and only made it through due to a controversial win over Ireland in the play-offs – a game memorable for Thierry Henry’s handball in the build-up to William Gallas’s winning goal.

Les Bleus have been drawn in Group A for the competition, with hosts South Africa, Mexico and Uruguay (4/1 to win Group A), and will kick-off their World Cup campaign against the South Americans on June 11th.

Ribery, answering questions put to him from football fans, told Fifa.com that he has high hopes that France can win the World Cup this summer.

“We have a very good team who are more than capable,” said the 27-year-old.

Speaking about France’s main rivals to lift the trophy, he added: “There are several other teams who are just as good, though, and at the moment I think England and Spain are both very strong.”

France coach Domenech recently came under fire from UEFA president and footballing legend Michel Platini.

He has previously supported the much-maligned manager, including during a poor showing in the 2008 European Championships, but now appears to have lost patience with Domenech.

He told Groupe Hersant Media there is a “Raymond problem” and Domenech has proved himself “hopeless” in many ways over the years.

When discussing France’s chances of success for the tournament he admitted he does not have high hopes for Les Bleus.

“I don’t see them winning, I see them passing the first round. After they will play either Argentina or Nigeria,” said Platini.

It remains to be seen whether Thierry Henry (33/1 to be top World Cup goalscorer), who played an infamous role in helping France qualify for South Africa, will actually be on the plane to the World Cup as Domenech recently said that he could not assure the 32-year-old a place in his squad.

The gaffer is set to name his preliminary squad on May 11th and Henry’s lack of playing time for Barcelona could play against him.

It remains to be seen if the former Arsenal legend will be among the party preparing for their opening game in Green Point on June 11^th.

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