French coach Raymond Domenech says his dispute with Robert Pires is over and the Arsenal midfielder would be welcome back in his squad.
Pires began the row in October when he slammed Domenech's strategy as unclear and bitterly complained after he was replaced at the interval of the 2-0 victory over Cyprus in a World Cup qualifying match.
Pires, France's most capped player of the squad with 79 appearances, said that he felt uneasy with Domenech and accused the coach of treating the players like schoolboys.
Domenech responded by leaving Pires out of France's last match of the year against Poland in Paris in November.
"I don't have to forgive Robert for anything. If I did, it would mean that I have been hurt by his comments," Domenech said in an interview in sports daily L'Equipe published on Tuesday.
"I don't make up my mind about someone from what he says but from what he does," Domenech said. "And there is no reason for Pires not to make his comeback.
"When you are in charge of a national team you can't rule out someone for irrelevant excuses. I'm not a resentful character. I can't do this."
Domenech said he has not blacklisted any players, including striker Nicolas Anelka who has not played for France since he snubbed a late call-up from former coach Jacques Santini in November 2002.
"I'm looking for the best players I can have on my side. It is obvious that those who belong to top clubs, those who take part in the Champions League, have an advantage when it comes to me setting up a list for an international," he said.
