Hugo Lloris anticipates "battle" in Kiev

France captain Hugo Lloris has declared that an improved Ukraine side will present a strong test of their World Cup credentials tonight, predicting a fierce encounter between the two teams in tonight's first leg.

Les Bleus go into the two-legged tie as favourites to earn a place in next summer's South American showpiece, but face a Ukraine whom England failed to beat on two occasions during their qualifying campaign.

Lloris believes that France must earn the right to play in Kiev this evening by matching their opponents for desire and physical presence, predicting a "battle" with so much at stake.

He told reporters: "It will be a battle. Before thinking about playing, we need to think about imposing ourselves physically.

"Collectively, they play better football. We know what to expect."

The Tottenham Hotspur stopper is due to play for the first time since being knocked unconscious at Everton earlier this month, after being passed fit for international duty earlier this week.