Cisse: I am not a ‘stop-gap’

The former Olympique de Marseille and Liverpool forward is glad to be back in the national team and is determined to continue playing for his countryLazio striker Djibril Cisse is confident that he will cement a permanent place in the France national squad under coach Laurent Blanc.The 30-year-old received his first call-up from Blanc for their upcoming Euro 2012 Group D qualifiers against Albania on Friday and Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday.Cisse, who joined Lazio from Greek giants Panathinaikos in the summer transfer window, is in the team only because of injuries to first choice forwards Karim Benzema and Kevin Gameiro and is likely to play the role of a substitute.However, the former Olympique de Marseille and Liverpool player is determined to retain his spot in Blanc’s unit in the future."I never let go, it's not in my temperament," he told L'Equipe. "When I want something, I give everything.“For me, this is not a stop-gap. If the coach calls on me then he thinks I can help and give something. If I can get a place, I'll take it.Reflecting on his absence from the national fold since the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa, Cisse admitted, "It was hard to watch, not to be included.“I've had ups and downs, but I have always remained attached to the France team. It feels good to come back."I'm not stupid, there are explanations [for not being called up] that I can understand. Even if the goals do not come by themselves, Greece is not the most difficult league.“From there, it's hard to compete with those who play for top European clubs. I was patient."France are yet to qualify for the Euro 2012 finals but are a point clear of second-placed Bosnia at the top of the table after eight rounds of matches in the group stage.