Patrick Vieira's omission from the France World Cup squad this week, effectively ending his international career at 33, is providing scope for the papers' follow-up stories.

Most report Pat's regret that French coach Raymond Domenech did not ring to tell him he had not made Le Cut, while the Mirror's Neil McLeman has a further twist to the tale.

He claims: "Domenech was at Upton Park on Sunday to watch the 33-year-old play his final game of the season for Manchester City. But the controversial manager then tried to persuade former Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele, 37, to come out of international retirement."

Vieira, who had the promise of a squad place if he found form and fitness with City, is quoted:  "I have not spoken to him (Domenech) for six months. Given my history, I would have liked more openness. I would have liked him to call me."

The Guardian adds that Vieira, a World Cup winner in 1998, saw the announcement on TV and translates his reaction as: "Learning the decision like that - this lack of tact, the lack of class - it annoys me."

Meanwhile, out there on the transfer trail, the Mail reports that Barcelona are going to give City and Chelsea the chance to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic for £40million-plus. Bargain!

The Screamer column suggests that "City may be wary of his occasionally sullen demeanour and inconsistency". Duly noted and forwarded to the transfers pending tray, chaps, thanks.

City's CEO has other things on his mind this weekend, though. Mirrorman Alex Spink, previewing Sunday's Bupa Greater Manchester Run, senses a win for Haile Gebrselassie (don't we all?) and adds: "Among those not expected to trouble him are City chief executive Garry Cook and opera singer Russell Watson."

Get Russ to do "Blue Moon" when you hit the wall, Garry, could inspire a famous victory ...