Nicolas Anelka was yesterday left out of the French squad for Wednesday's friendly against Scotland sparking serious concerns that he will miss this summer's World Cup finals.
Despite the latest snub French boss Roger Lemerre insists he hasn't closed the door on Anelka just yet.
"Anelka needs some time," said Lemerre. "He took a big decision during the winter break and we could say that he is a little bit disabled because he cannot play in Europe.
"I am happy to see his progress, but so far he has made only brief appearances for Liverpool.
"He is still very present in my mind. I still have time to make my final decision which I have to make 10 days before our first game in the World Cup."
Liverpool target Djibril Cisse was also left out of the squad.