Portsmouth defender Sol Campbell is amazed by Sylvain Distin's continued international omission by France.

He told The News: "Sylvain has come in and been massive. He's been excellent. It's been a great partnership. It's a bit surprising why he hasn't played for France. I'm sure he could.

"As far as I'm concerned, he's definitely up there with some of the guys I have played with over the years. He's good in the air, he's quick, he can move the ball around, he talks a lot and puts in good performances all the time.

"He wants to win and it's good to have those kind of players around. We struck up a partnership very quickly. As long as you get two players who are willing to just play and get on with it, it's quite easy to gel.

"That's the understanding we have. With the French, I don't know what goes on behind the scenes but you've got to do a lot to get in there.

"They are not willy nilly. They are pretty strict with the players who get in. They don't give caps out easily. To be honest I think it will be a little bit difficult for Sylvain to make the Euros now.

"The manager will have his side now, although maybe one or two places are still up for grabs, I don't know. It's difficult for him, but I'm sure he can still play for France. You just never know."