In the aftermath of France's 5-0 home defeat to Italy in the Fed Cup, there is no let up in the domestic debate over Marion's status with the French team. French players such as Marion's former doubles partner Emilie Loit have been canvassed for thier opinions on the matter, during this week's GDF Suez event in Paris. The pressure is clearly mounting, not least because Marion has returned to the position of highest ranking Frenchwoman after an impressive run of results so far this season.

Technical director Patrice Dominguez this week said He still hopes to persuade Marion to rejoin the team and confirms that a line of contact still exists between himself and Walter Bartoli. But he also said that some players have had some issues with her and are not ready to accept her back in the team.

In addition he criticised Marion on her absence from this weeks GDF Suez tournament.

Last weekend Team Captain Nicolas Escude said that not one iota had changed on the matter of Marion and the Fed Cup team.

In a recent radio interview, newly elected FFT President Jean Gachassin passed comment on Walter Bartoli.

According to Lighter, Gacchassin said, "he's coach, doctor, press relations..." in order to prevent anyone having a direct link with Marion.

Gachassin intends to have a frank discussion with Walter..

In Monday's l'équipe, Walter Bartoli said, "As Marion wants to be polite, she will give first of all her answer to the FFT president, if this one is ok with that." (Alain Deflassieux)

This gesture in itself should dispel any doubts that Mr. Gachassin has over Marion's ability to speak and think for herself.

Marion Bartoli seems quite comfortable speaking with the media and fans. In fact journalists and fans alike enjoy Bartoli interviews for their candor, humor, intelligence, and talkativeness. She is funny and has lots to say on many things. This is a quite refreshing quality to possess in these days of the anodyne media savvy tennis professional. Marion is a breath of fresh air and very much thinks for herself.

It seems unfair to me that just because some have a lack of insight into the Marion et Walter Bartoli chemistry, it’s then suggested that they live in some sort of cocoon or "bubble" as Eric Florio put it. Have we forgotten already the marvellous WTA Tour player blog she wrote? Marion did well to make herself available to the media as much as she did in Melbourne and Brisbane... sheesh I was exhausted just keeping track of it all! :zz:: Best hobby in the world though ;)

01:00