Enzo Le Fée emerges as Zidane’s midfield option

Enzo Le Fée has moved into contention for France under new head coach Zinedine Zidane after a strong start to life at Sunderland. The midfielder has received his first preselection for the national team, placing him among the options for the next international gathering.

Le Fée scored Sunderland’s only goal in their 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar on Wednesday. The result extended a positive run since his move to the English club, where he has become a central figure in the side coached by Régis Le Bris.

The 25-year-old previously played for Lorient and Rennes. His performances have now brought him into the national-team discussion, with Zidane due to announce his squad on Thursday for a camp scheduled between the end of September and the start of October.

Le Fée has played down any focus on selection. He said his priority was continuing to perform for Sunderland and allowing those displays to determine whether a France call-up follows. He also welcomed seeing new players receive their first international opportunities, while making clear that selection was not influencing his work at club level.