Claude Makelele will take his place in France's starting line-up against Italy tomorrow - but coach Raymond Domenech is refusing to confirm it will be the midfielder's last appearance in a national team jersey.

Makelele revealed after the World Cup finals in Germany this summer that he would be retiring from international duty, but Domenech refused to accept his decision and selected the 33-year-old for Les Bleus' opening two Euro 2008 qualifiers.

Chelsea head coach Jose Mourinho described Domenech's decision to force Makelele to play as treating the player like a "slave", sparking disbelief from the France coach.

Domenech has not ruled out picking Makelele for future France matches, and today said that selection decisions will "depend on my goodwill and my goodwill only".

Makelele featured in the 3-0 win over Georgia on Saturday, and although he came off in the 58th minute with an ankle injury, Domenech confirmed the holding midfielder will play against Italy in Paris in a rematch of the World Cup final.

"There is at least one player who is sure to play on Wednesday," said Domenech, referring to Makelele.

But when asked about the Chelsea player's future, he added: "For the moment, there is the match against Italy. After that, we will see. The players who are available and who are playing at a high level are those who are up for selection. That will depend on my goodwill and my goodwill only."

Patrick Vieira, captain of Les Bleus and Makelele's partner in the centre of midfield, appears convinced the Chelsea star will carry on playing for his country.

"His position is difficult, but I believe, deep down, he wants to continue," said the Inter Milan player. "We have spoken about it a bit, and for me there is no doubt. What makes me pleased is seeing how he is with us in the squad. He is the same, he is Claude. I hope he will continue the adventure."

Makelele is not the only player nursing an ankle injury. Striker Louis Saha, who has started the Barclays Premiership season well with Manchester United, scored the opener against Georgia but also took a knock to his ankle.

Domenech, however, believes the duo will be fit for the Group B fixture.

"It is okay but they must train like normal on Tuesday afternoon," he said. "There is no worry there. I know the team in my head but there are a few uncertainties. But so as not to take any risks, we will confirm it on Wednesday."