He recalled to L'Equipe: "I am not the only one responsible for what happened in Ukraine.
"During the 2014 season, I wanted to go to Brazil every day. It stuck in my throat. I missed the first World Cup in South Africa. Biggest regrets of my career? Yes. If I had been less of a mulehead? Yes maybe. But I wouldn't have felt good about myself at the end of my career. I prefer to have my personality, whether you like it or not.
"Did I enjoy watching the France team during these two World Cups? I watched with eternal regret.
"2010, I was happy with what happened to show that it wasn't me. 2014, I have real regrets because I felt that it could be my competition. I don't know how to explain but I was full of confidence after a big season and I already saw myself in Brazil. After 2014 and my international retirement, I mourned."