Roy Hodgson ‘thought France game might be called off’

Roy Hodgson has revealed that he expected Tuesday’s friendly against France to be cancelled after the terror attacks in France.

France were playing world champions Germany in Paris on Friday as a wave of attacks hit the city, killing at least 132 people.

The France squad spent Friday night inside the Stade de France with the Germany squad after the conclusion of the match.

“We thought it might be called off. But I wouldn’t have expected any of our players to have concerns about playing,” revealed Hodgson.

“Our players were of course devastated. We would have been perfectly content with the game being called off but we were told the game was to go ahead so we’ve tried our best to prepare accordingly.”

FA chief executive Martin Glenn had earlier told a news conference that French Football Federation had wanted Tuesday's friendly international against England to go ahead at Wembley Stadium mainly for symbolic reasons.

"We spoke to the French Federation on Saturday, and were in touch with the French presidents' office and there were two conditions to hold the game," said Glenn.

"UK authorities and government need to make sure it was safe and the French wanted to play. They wanted to go ahead, for mainly symbolic reasons, and we were very happy to meet their concerns."

"We'd like fans to turn up a bit earlier as there will be more security checks and police around the area."

Glenn also revealed that the lyrics of the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, would be displayed on the big screens so that all fans can join in the singing.

Wembley's giant arch will shine in red, white and blue while the French flag and national slogan of 'Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite' will be shown displayed on LED screens on Wembley Way

There will be a minute's silence before kick-off and both teams will wear black armbands to remember those killed in Friday's attacks.

Glenn added: "7.55pm is when the game will really begin as we show our solidarity with France."

England manager Hodgson also revealed that it would be a rather experimental, young side to face France.

“But we can’t deny there is something hanging over this game far greater than a football match. I’ve never been in a football game like this before.”

"There will be six players under 22. We lost Fabian Delph. We are in a difficult situation and we’re playing against a very good team.

“I’m sure these players won’t let the country down but I’m sure the game will be a lot more about showing solidarity.”