Thauvin: As a former Marseille player, it is normal to be booed here, but the fans cheered after I scored

In the World Cup European qualifiers held early this morning, France defeated Azerbaijan 3-0 at home. French forward Thauvin was interviewed after the game.

You were selected for the French national team again after 6 years. In this game, you came on as a substitute in the 83rd minute and scored a goal in the 84th minute.

I admit that there is light in my eyes, and I am like a child. It was important to be able to wear the national team jersey again, not to mention getting a few minutes and scoring goals, and in front of my son, who saw me play for the French national team for the first time...

How does it feel to be back with the national team?

This is an important moment for me and my family. I always told myself that if I had the opportunity to wear this jersey again, I would give it my all. What makes me most proud is that I didn't give up. There was a time when I was closer to retirement than to the national team. I think I am better than I was 6 years ago. I am more mature and have more leadership skills. The experience of playing in Italy has brought me to a new level. I feel better in training and more involved with the ball. I finally matured at age 31, and I think you saw that tonight.

After you scored the goal the whole team came up to congratulate me

I was very touched because everyone in the locker room was happy for me and I saw a lot of sincere emotions and it made me feel very warm.

This game was played at the Parc des Princes in Paris. When you came on as a substitute, the Paris fans in the stadium booed you.

I have no resentment or hostility. As a former Marseille player, this (booing) is also part of the game. And after I scored, all the fans cheered for me, and that's the most important thing.