While at Arsenal, despite being born in Senegal and ethnically being of Senegal origin, Vieira chose to make his debut for France in 1997 against the Netherlands. He was part of the France squad in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He came on as a substitute in the final against Brazil, and set up Emmanuel Petit for France's third goal in a 3-0 win. He, with the rest of the squad, received Légion d'Honneur, France's highest decoration in 1998.
He subsequently played as a first choice midfield player in France's successful campaign in Euro 2000, which they won, beating Italy in the final. He also played in all three games in the FIFA World Cup 2002, in which France were eliminated in the group stage, failing to score a goal. He was injured and missed France's defeat to Greece at Euro 2004.
Vieira was appointed national team captain on Zinedine Zidane's retirement from international football. Nonetheless, he and veteran defender Lilian Thuram were instrumental in convincing Zida
More about Patrick Vieira (From Wikipedia)
Patrick Vieira (born June 23, 1976 in Dakar, Senegal) is a Senegal born French international football midfielder who currently plays for Internazionale. He came to prominence during read more...
While at Arsenal, despite being born in Senegal and ethnically being of Senegal origin, Vieira chose to make his debut for France in 1997 against the Netherlands. He was part of read more...