App.	Minutes on Pitch	Goals	Av. Rating	Star Man
3	270	0	5.33	0

The Chelsea star retired from international football after France's dismal Euro 2004 campaign, but changed his mind and is once again an integral part of his country's side. Makelele's performances as a tireless midfield spoiler were invaluable to France's progress to the 2006 World Cup Final as they defeated Spain, the defending champions Brazil and Euro 2004 finalists Portugal in the knock-out rounds. After the defeat to Italy on penalties in the World Cup Final, Makelele initially commented that he was again going to retire from international football. However, Domenech called Makelele up for the opening Euro 2008 qualifier and the 35-year-old played in 11 of France's qualifiers.