Classical Steinitz French with 5.Nf3

In recent years the Classical Variation of the French Defence (1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Nf6) has been very popular with many different playable options for Black after either 4.Bg5 of 4.e5 Nfd7 5.f4. Yet by playing 4.e5 Nfd7 5.Nf3 White can sidestep these and get the game back onto his own turf. In the main line White can choose between two different approaches, purely positional play or a violent plan involving castling long. The first of these plans has been used extensively by Australian GM Ian Rogers whilst Alexandra Kosteniuk has played the second with great effect. Both these plans are explained making this product suitable for players of every style. A number of transpositions are also mentioned by which the lines covered can be reached via a 1.e4 e6 2.Nf3 move order or even an Alekhine's Defence!