Reported Newcastle transfer target Adrien Rabiot grabbed his first international goal for France yesterday, as he netted in the 8-0 demolition of Kazakhstan.
The reigning World champions put their opponents to the sword in Paris.
It was the Kylian Mbappe show as the Paris Saint-Germain forward helped himself to four of the eight goals.
The result sealed France’s place at next year’s finals in Qatar.
It was always going to be a difficult game for Kazakhstan, but France showed absolutely no mercy.
Kazakhstan may be ranked 125th in the world, but it was still a very impressive and professional performance from France.
Mbappe stole all the headlines of course, but Rabiot also had a solid outing in midfield for Les Bleus.
He completed 76/82 passes (93% accuracy), and had 95 touches in the game, which was second only to defender Jules Kounde (97).
He really dominated and dictated things for the hosts, and scored a thumping header to boot – his first for Les Bleus.
Rabiot will have much tougher challenges this season, but it was an assured display nonetheless.
The performance comes amid speculation Newcastle are looking to sign the Juventus star in January.
Corriere dello Sport have claimed (via Express) the Magpies are a solid option for the 26-year-old, who is supposedly valued at around £13 million.
Rabiot grans first goal and dominates for France
It was a cracking display from Rabiot.
Kazakhstan are obviously not the most challenging opponents, but Rabiot still needed to do his job.
He controlled things in there, which is what he is all about.
His pass accuracy in Serie A so far this season is 84%, which is impressive.
Newcastle need someone who can get on the ball and dictate games.
Eddie Howe will want his side to have more of the ball, and having someone like Rabiot in the team will encourage that.