I should have been picked - Vieira

France veteran Patrick Vieira has lashed out after he was left out of Raymond Domenech's squad for the World Cup qualifying play-offs against the Republic of Ireland.

The former captain is struggling for first-team football at Inter Milan and, despite his 107 caps, has not been included for Les Bleus' crunch clash this month.

Vieira feels Domenech has made the wrong decision and told L'Equipe: "I know that, in my position, there is no one better than me in France at the moment. This could seem pretentious but I am sure of that."

He added: "I have set myself the target of featuring in the next World Cup. What is certain is that I will do the maximum to be there. After that, there is a coach who will make his choices and take responsibility for them."

Speculation has been rife that Vieira will leave the San Siro in January if his playing opportunities do not improve, with a return to France a possibility.

And the 33-year-old knows he has to get a regular starting position.

He added: "I know my delicate situation in that I am not an unquestionable starter for my club. I am getting back to my top level, which is encouraging. I have overcome this stage.

"Now, I have to build up a run of matches and be a regular player."