PARIS: Newcastle United midfielder Yohan Cabaye is unlikely to start France's friendly game against Japan on Friday due to a stomach problem, coach Didier Deschamps revealed on Wednesday.

“Yohan is still in discomfort and has slight abdominal pain,” said Deschamps.

“He'll still train separately today (Wednesday) and it's probable that he won't start the match.”

France are already without Abou Diaby and Rio Mavuba due to injury, and the absence of Cabaye would leave them even more light in central midfield ahead of Tuesday's key World Cup Group I qualifier against Spain in Madrid.

However, Deschamps said that there was better news concerning Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery, who had sat out Tuesday's training session along with Cabaye.

“He's doing better and he'll train as normal today,” he said.

Deschamps also revealed that Hugo Lloris will continue to sport the captain's armband against the Blue Samurai at Stade de France.

“Hugo Lloris will play on Friday and will be the captain,” said the former Marseille coach.

Lloris made his Premier League debut for Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend, having initially been forced to play second fiddle to Spurs' 41-year-old American goalkeeper, Brad Friedel.