LENS, France (AP) -- France coach Raymond Domenech has switched to a 4-3-3 formation for Wednesday's friendly match against Costa Rica, dropping his usual two holding midfielders for a more attacking style.
Defender William Gallas made his return in a flat back four, the first time the Arsenal defender has played since injuring his calf muscle in Champions League quarterfinal against Barcelona on March 31.
Domenech has long favored a cautious 4-2-3-1 lineup with Jeremy Toulalan and Lassana Diarra providing a shield in front of the defense, but Domenech had a rethink after Diarra went home last week because of a genetic red-blood cell disorder.
Domenech's team struggled to score throughout a tortuous World Cup qualifying campaign, and the change may herald a fresh approach in South Africa next month.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka started Wednesday's game at center-forward, with Bordeaux's Yoann Gourcuff and Chelsea's Florent Malouda either side of Toulalan in a new midfield.
Fitness allowing, the back four are likely to be Domenech's defense in South Africa, with Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna at right back, Barcelona's Eric Abidal alongside Gallas in the center, and Manchester United's Patrice Evra at left back.
Marseille's Steve Mandanda started the game as goalkeeper, although Lyon's Hugo Lloris remains the first choice.