France president Jacques Chirac was quick to offer his support to embattled Les Bleus midfielder Zinedine Zidane following his dismissal in the World Cup final on Sunday night.
Chirac hosted a dinner in honour of the squad on Monday lunchtime in Paris, after which he outlined his admiration for Zidane and the rest of the team, who lost to Italy on penalties in Berlin.
On Zidane, who was sent off for head-butting Italy defender Marco Materazzi, he said: "Dear Zinedine, in such a hard and intense moment for you, I would like to express the whole nation's affection and admiration for you. You are a virtuoso, a genius of football and an exceptional human being. That is why France admires you."
To the whole squad, Chirac added: "France love you and admire you. You have made us experience an unforgettable moment in the past month by allowing us to reach a second World Cup final in eight years. You gave us a tremendous happiness and pride.
"The match you played on Sunday night was full of talent and professionalism.
"I know that you are sad and disappointed but what I want to tell you is that the whole country is extremely proud of you.
"You have honoured the country with your exceptional qualities and your fantastic fighting spirit which was your strength in difficult times but also in winning times."
Coach Raymond Domenech also came in for specific praise.
"I would also like to pay tribute to Raymond Domenech, a fantastic architect of this performance, as well as to the rest of the team," said Chirac. "I would also like to say to those who have not played that we are aware of their talent and give thanks to their generosity and strength of character, they have contributed to the success.
"This has been a marvellous sporting adventure which will stay in all French people's minds forever. France is strong when it's united in its diversity. I want to say a big bravo to you all."
