France coach Raymond Domenech is happy to have handed the World Cup captaincy to Manchester United fullback Patrice Evra.

Domenech hopes that by appointing the popular left-back, the rest of the squad will be lifted and play to their potential.

"Patrice has been the soul of Manchester United," said Domenech.

"When, as a manager, you study Sir Alex Ferguson's club, you can only try to copy it.

"With Patrice's character, he gives you something - he sets the tone for the entire team."