"

Nicolas Anelka would be welcomed back into the international fold by French Football Federation president Claude Simonet.

The Manchester City striker has revealed he would be keen on an immediate return to the France squad.

With Euro 2004 on the horizon and France needing solid support for Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet, Anelka revealed he would attempt to resolve his differences with France coach Jacques Santini.

Anelka said: "I want to be a French international again. When you get older, you change, and you grow up.

"I never closed the door to the French team."

Anelka's announcement was well received by Simonet who hinted that he would be happy for Santini to call up Anelka for the friendly against Belgium on February 18.

Before falling out with Santini, 24-year-old Anelka had won 28 France caps and scored six goals."