Laurent Koscielny ruled out of World Cup after injuring Achilles, confirm French Federation
France boss Didier Deschamps admits it is a 'very big blow' with Russia 2018 likely Arsenal ace's last chance of international glory
LAURENT KOSCIELNY has been ruled out of the World Cup.
The France defender, 32, was taken off on a stretcher during Arsenal's 1-0 Europa League semi-final second leg defeat at Atletico Madrid on Thursday.
Arsene Wenger later said he may have ruptured his Achilles - a problem he has been nursing all season.
The French Federation have confirmed Koscielny will take no part in Russia this summer.
France boss Didier Deschamp said: "It's a very big blow for the French team.
"An injury never comes at the right time.
"I am really very sad for Laurent because this World Cup was also a very important moment for him in his career.
"I wish him strength and a good return to the field, because I'm sure he still has some great things to show."
This summer's World Cup was likely Koscielny's last chance of glory with France.
He will be 36 by the time the next tournament comes around at Qatar 2020.
Koscielny started France's last friendly against Russia in March but looked set to play backup to Raphael Varane and Samuel Umtiti.
He has played 51 times for his country.