Patrick Vieira defends Idrissa Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly after Senegal win

Patrick Vieira strongly defended Idrissa Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly after Senegal’s 1-0 friendly victory over Comoros at Marseille’s Stade Velodrome on Sunday, rejecting a journalist’s description of the experienced pair as “players whose time is over”.

The Senegal manager reacted angrily during his post-match news conference after being asked about the two players, who were characterised in those terms by the reporter.

“That is inappropriate. It should not be repeated simply because those things are being said outside,” Vieira said, according to RMC Sport. “You are talking about players who have scored goals and made history for Senegal.”

He added: “We cannot use these terms. Even if some people use them away from the pitch, you as journalists have a responsibility to change that terminology.

“We have seen the match they played today, and you consider them forgotten players. It is unacceptable to use these terms. I do not accept that question or this lack of respect. They are exemplary players, both on and off the pitch.”

Vieira then asked the journalist to “rephrase the question” before clarifying that his response was not intended as a confrontation.

“I am not at war; I am simply pointing out something that is unacceptable,” he said. “We are talking about two players who have performed at the highest level for years. Their presence here proves that they have the qualities required to represent Senegal.”

The former Nice manager was speaking after a hard-fought victory that extended his unbeaten record since taking charge of Senegal. The result also gave the Lions of Teranga their second successive win, despite a performance that was not entirely convincing.

Elye Wahi’s goal secured the victory for Senegal, with the forward scoring at his former home ground. The win followed a draw with Mozambique and a victory over Ethiopia in qualification for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

Senegal’s success against Comoros maintained their positive run under Vieira, although the narrow margin and occasionally unconvincing display provided the backdrop to the questions about Gueye and Koulibaly.

Vieira, however, made clear that he regarded the pair’s experience and continued involvement with the national side as evidence of their value, rather than a sign that their careers were in decline.