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Karim Benzema’s France National Team Involvement Discussed by Didier Deschamps
- Updated: November 22, 2016
France coach Didier Deschamps has opened the door for a potential return to the national team for Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema, saying the striker could be recalled if it is in the best interests of the squad.
Benzema has not represented Les Bleus since October 2015 and was left out of the squad that reached the final of Euro 2016 after his alleged involvement in a blackmail attempt against international team-mate Mathieu Valbuena, per the Guardian.
However, Deschamps has now confirmed the 28-year-old is not out of the reckoning for good, per beIN Sports (via Goal’s Stefan Coerts):
There is no Benzema case for me. That is something the media have created.
It is clear that he was an important player for France and then some things happened. Every time I take a decision, I look at what is best for the team and I will continue to make my decisions based on that principle.
But that does not mean Benzema’s situation will still be the same in four or six months. There is a team that is doing well and has a common goal, but nothing is permanent.
If I call up Benzema, it will be with the intention to play him. It is the same with Patrice Evra. I do not call up players …
