Varane, Kimpembe and Giroud named in France World Cup squad

By JEROME PUGMIRE
AP Sports Writer

PARIS (AP) — France coach Didier Deschamps picked central defenders Raphael Varane and Prensel Kimpembe in a World Cup squad named amid injury concerns. He left out standout goalkeeper Mike Maignan because of an ongoing calf problem. Deschamps announced his 25-man squad on national television. Defending champion France opens against Australia on Nov. 22 and will fly to Qatar next Wednesday. Deschamps accepts injuries and fatigue remain a concern but says “we play on the 22nd, so at least we have one week to prepare.” Veteran striker Olivier Giroud was selected in a glittering attack after some fine performances for AC Milan. He needs three more goals to beat Thierry Henry’s national record of 51.