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Didier Deschamps defends his substitutions as France draw

France coach Didier Deschamps defended his decision to make a number of changes for the goalless friendly draw at home to Ivory Coast.

There were few chances on either side and although the hosts dominated possession they could not make the breakthrough.

However, Deschamps was pleased to be able to experiment with some new faces, the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Adrien Rabiot, Sebastien Corchia and Thomas Lemar.

"We had a tough game and it was a laborious second half," he told Canal + Sport.

"When there are many changes, it does not help. We won the game that we had to win on Friday [the World Cup qualifier against Sweden] and there I was able to give playing time to young players.

"It seemed appropriate for the team. Do not judge too quickly the players tonight. The requirements at this level are very high but I do not often get the chance to do that.

"We have done very good things this year with the highlight being Euro 2016 [where they finished runners-up as hosts] -- although the only loss we have is the one that hurts and prevents us to have a title.

"The team has improved a lot. We must build on it. I'll make sure to give the young players a taste of the high level in the future."

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