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Fenerbahçe striker Nicolas Anelka has denounced former critics who have begun singing his praises since his recall to the France side.
The former Arsenal man has been a highly controversial figure in recent seasons, and he feels there is an insincere quality to his new-found popularity.
"Since I've been back with Les Bleus, it's as if I've suddenly become good again," he declared. "That's just pure hypcocrisy."
Anelka scored during France's 3-2 friendly win over Costa Rica last month to revive his hopes of going to the World Cup, and he admits he had almost given up hope of appearing for the national side again.
"I wasn't thinking about Les Bleus too much," he stated. "It wasn't an obsession anymore, even if I did deserve a recall. My reward came at the moment when I was least expecting it.
"[France Coach Raymond] Domenech is a decent guy. There had been a misunderstanding but we talked. He said, 'let's not go on about the past or what you said. I'll only judge you out on the pitch.'"
As for his chances of being included in the World Cup squad, the 26-year-old says he is not afraid of being left out.
"I already know what it feels like not to be called up anymore," he commented. "I accepted being ignored for more than three years. Nothing can hurt me now."
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