Franck Ribery rues World Cup absence

France international Franck Ribery has admitted that he was left "bitter" after he was forced to withdraw from his country's World Cup squad.

The Bayern Munich star was expected to be one of Les Blues' leading players in Brazil, but was forced to pull out from the 23-man squad just days before the tournament began.

He told the club's official website: "Injuries occur from time to time, but just before a World Cup, that was bitter. Especially since I was great in shape. That was a big disappointment for me.

"I was really looking forward to Brazil. But now is also good. I do not want to think about [the World Cup], but look forward. I'm looking forward to the new season.

"Of course I'm not at 100%, but that's normal. I lost my rhythm [during the injury]. My game is based on explosiveness and speed. I have to get this back."

Ribery finished third in the Ballon d'Or vote earlier this year as Cristiano Ronaldo beat Lionel Messi to the title.