Intro:

France coach Laurent Blanc has chosen Hugo Lloris as his captain for the European Championship, preferring the Lyon goalkeeper over AC Milan centre half Philippe Mexes and Barcelona left back Eric Abidal.

Blanc made the announcement on Tuesday at a news conference ahead of Wednesday's friendly against Germany in Bremen.

Script:

SOUNDBITE: (French) France coach Laurent Blanc

"'We try to win every match, that's how we usually prepare for a game. But we know about the qualities of Germany. They have a very strong team. I expect from my team to improve and make developments and to show a decent performance."

SOUNDBITE: (French) France coach Laurent Blanc

"Between France and Germany the matches have always been about a lot of prestige. And although it is a friendly match, I expect the Germans to try and win against us. I think realistically the German team is more stable and has got more qualities than the French. But sometimes in football the unexpected can happen and the weaker teams can win.

SOUNDBITE: (French) France goalkeeper and captain Hugo Lloris

(On being named captain)

"Of course it is a huge responsibility for me. But I don't think things are going to change too much. I will stay who I am and I will continue to work for the team. It is just more responsibility and of course that gives me more motivation, too."