Interview Michel Platini: For a man who claims his sole purpose in Ireland this past week has been to improve his English, Michel Platini certainly knows how to hold a captive audience in a language which it transpires, is not that problematic for him at all. There is little doubt, however, the visit of France's most revered footballing legend holds meatier connotations.
With the Uefa presidential election lurking, Platini (51) is canvassing for votes as he prepares to go toe-to-toe with 76-year-old incumbent Lennart Johansson who has held the post since 1990. He is reluctant to speak at length, if at all, about his campaign manifesto before presenting his ideas to national associations, but reaffirms a commitment to football maintaining jurisdiction over football matters. Similarly, he plays his cards close to his chest regarding the Champions League format, a competition he hopes down the line will give smaller nations, including Ireland, a better chance of sharing in the lucrative pot.
What he will freely talk about, however, is hurling. Yes hurling. A guest of the FAI at Sunday's All-Ireland final in Croke Park, Platini developed an instant liking for a game he initially branded "crazy" and then after reflection "a really impressive experience for me".
Drawing imaginary vertical lines on his shirt, he illustrates his appreciation of Kilkenny's achievement. "I like that team," he says, struggling to remember the county name. "Kilkenny," prompts FAI chief executive John Delaney at his side. "Yes, the bees, they look like bees," retorts the Frenchman.
Considering the ludicrous wages footballers command, was he impressed that 30-plus amateurs battled in front of a 82,000 full house for free? "Perhaps, but I think they are also stupid," he offers quizzically and without hesitation.
Does he envisage Croke Park staging a Champions League final? He shrugs: "I know you have Lansdowne Road being redesigned so it is not correct to talk about another stadium. Lansdowne will be the new temple of Irish football."
Like Steve Staunton, Platini became an international manager without first testing the waters at club level. After a distinguished playing career in which he won every major title except the World Cup and was bestowed with every honour, he was put in charge of France in 1988.
"I don't think it is too difficult to learn," he says when quizzed on the Irish manager. "Everybody must start somewhere. When you became journalists you had no experience either. You had to learn. You will be a good coach if you have good players. But it is difficult because in the beginning . . . you think your players will play just like you did."
He believes Staunton's men were courageous in defeat against Germany but feels Ireland must improve considerably to qualify for the European finals. "After the Dutch game you found credibility, but you need to do much more. You have some great players, but they too must do much more."
Under his tutelage France won all their qualifying matches for Euro 92 in Sweden. But when his side failed to make it past the first round proper, Platini stepped down. But not before he too lashed out at a water-bottle.
Were you sent off? Were you fined? Were you suspended, like Staunton could be later this week? "No, I just left (the job). We had 10 minutes to play and I knew we were out. The referee did not even see me do it."
Platini will not, after all, assist with this evening's FAI Cup draw. But, the great Frenchman may well feel satisfied his week spent mingling within FAI circles has has served its purpose well.
