DHAKA: France goalkeeper Steve Mandanda has been ruled out of the World Cup because of a neck injury.

The 29-year-old, who is number two behind France captain Hugo Lloris, cracked a vertebra in his neck while playing for Marseille on Saturday.

Mandanda confirmed his withdrawal on Twitter, saying:  "It is with great sadness that I announce that I will not be able to take part in the World Cup."

He is likely to be replaced by St Etienne's Stephane Ruffier, 27.

Mandanda, who has 16 caps for his country, was struck in the face by the knee of Guingamp's Mustapha Yatabare.

Marseille won the game, which was their final league fixture of the season, 1-0.

France are in Group E of the World Cup, which begins on 12 June.

They will play Honduras in their opening game on 15 June, before also facing Ecuador and Switzerland.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1105 HRS, MAY 19, 2014