Portsmouth captain Sol Campbell cannot understand why team-mate Sylvain Distin has been overlooked for international honours by France.

Campbell, who is set to return from injury against Wigan Athletic on Saturday, says he finds Distin's continued absence from the French team baffling.

"Sylvain has come in here and been massive, he said. He's been excellent all year.

"And for me it's a bit surprising why he hasn't played for France. I'm sure he could. As far as I'm concerned, he's definitely up there with some of the guys I have played with over the years.

"He's good in the air, he's quick, he can move the ball around. He talks a lot and puts in good performances all the time. He wants to win and it's good to have those kind of players around.

"With the French, I don't know what goes on behind the scenes but you've got to do a lot to get in there. They don't give caps out easily.

"It's difficult for Sylvain now to get into the reckoning for the Euro 2008 finals but I'm sure he can still play for France. You just never know."

Uncapped Distin, 30, has remained at Pompey's training ground this week with Campbell while team-mates David James, Jermain Defoe and Glen Johnson were on England duty.

All five look set to face Wigan, as Portsmouth build towards their FA Cup semi-final with West Bromwich Albion at Wembley on April 5.

TeamTalk / Eurosport