FFF: Yohan Cabaye wasn't hurt while on France duty

PARIS (AP) The French Football Federation says midfielder Yohan Cabaye was already injured when he joined up with the squad last week for the friendly against Italy.

The FFF says "the Newcastle player arrived injured," adding that "he did not train once" and "did not play the slightest minute of the Italy-France match, which he followed from the bench, without wearing his match kit."

The FFF issued the statement in reaction to what it says are incorrect reports as to how Cabaye injured his groin.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew expects Cabaye's injury to keep him out until January. Some French media is reporting the player was injured after meeting up with the squad to prepare for the match.

Updated November 20, 2012