Vieira: France success should end Dad's Army jibes
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Patrick Vieira says France's semifinal win over Brazil is proof the team is not too old.
Coach Raymond Domenech was criticised for picking an ageing squad, which struggled in its opening group games.
But Vieira, 30, said: "A lot of people placed too much emphasis on the age factor but they're beginning to focus on what we do on the pitch.
"We responded well and this is the best answer we can give."
Juventus midfielder Vieira's views were echoed by his former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry.
Henry said: "People were killing us from day one, saying this team is too old. But we have kept going."
France now face England's conquerors Portugal in the semi-final and Vieira said: "It's going to be a very difficult game.
"When you arrive at this stage of the competition every team is challenging."
Coach Raymond Domenech was criticised for picking an ageing squad, which struggled in its opening group games.
But Vieira, 30, said: "A lot of people placed too much emphasis on the age factor but they're beginning to focus on what we do on the pitch.
"We responded well and this is the best answer we can give."
Juventus midfielder Vieira's views were echoed by his former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry.
Henry said: "People were killing us from day one, saying this team is too old. But we have kept going."
France now face England's conquerors Portugal in the semi-final and Vieira said: "It's going to be a very difficult game.
"When you arrive at this stage of the competition every team is challenging."
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