"?France legend Robert Pires believes his country should pick West Ham play-maker Dimitri Payet ahead of Manchester United's Anthony Martial in Friday's Euro 2016 opener.
Speaking to R"?MC, Pires explained his desire to see 29-year old Payet in the starting XI against Romania in place of Martial, whose position within the French side had previously seemed comfortable.
But a spectacular free-kick scored against Cameroon, coupled with impressive performances in friendlies against Russia and Scotland respectively has moved Payet up the pecking order, according to Pires.
He said: "Both players are very good and totally different. I have a slight preference for Dimitri Payet. In modern football, set pieces are very important.
"With a free kick, Payet can bring you a victory like he did against Cameroon. But I want to stress that the substitutes have a very important role too."
Payet was short-listed for the PFA Player of the Year Award in the Premier League, scoring nine goals and creating nine assists last season.
The midfield dynamo also helped West Ham to their highest Premier League finish since 1999, despite missing two months of the season with injury.
On the other hand, Manchester United forward Anthony Martial chipped in with 11 goals and four assists in 32 Premier League appearances for his side; who finished a disappointing fifth in the league table.
The discussion has been lengthy about which star should play, with Twitter being awash with debate about the two.
Payet or Martial ? #Euros
Can't argue with that positive performance. Number of impressive displays - Kante wins the battle with Cabaye. Now just Payet or Martial?
L'Equipe says N'Golo Kante played his way into a starting place against Scotland last night. Only question remaining is Payet or Martial.
Whose a better player? Martial or Payet?@ToppsKick @TBoneCaponeOG @ONESON77 @topps_twinge #ToppsKICK
Regardless of who starts, former Arsenal man Pires maintains his confidence that host nation France will have a successful tournament this month.
But he also admits how crucial it is to get off the mark with an opening Group A victory at the Stade de France on Friday.
He said: "The first match is crucial. It starts up your adventure and lifts some pressure.
"Pressure is going to come from supporters and the media. To put all these people in your pocket, you have to win the first match."
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