Antoine Griezmann calls for Karim Benzema's return to the France national team
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has continued to gain support from his teammates for a France recall after he was left out of the national squad by coach Didier Deschamps for his alleged blackmail of teammate Mathieu Valbuena.
This time, it was his rival from the other side of the Madrid, Antoine Griezmann, who has called for Karim Benzema’s selection.
Also read: France manager Didier Deschamps defends Karim Benzema's omission; says it is good for the team
Benzema’s club coach Zinedine Zidane, who was himself a legend for the national team, has claimed that the striker is “eager to go back” and represent his national team. Zidane won the 1998 World Cup with France and came agonisingly close in 2006 when the Italians edged the French team out on penalties.
Griezmann wants Benzema back
“France misses him because he’s a great player. He’s easy to connect with on the pitch. Playing with him is easy and he understands me on and off the field.” said Antoine Griezmann about his Real Madrid counterpart.
Griezmann has been having the year of his life and is one of the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or against Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Benzema is available for selection, says President of France football
“Benzema isn’t selectable,” said Noel Le Graet, the President of France’s football federation, when Karim Benzema was not picked for the UEFA European Championship which was held in France this year. However, last week Le Graet has stated that Karim Benzema is not suspended and is available for selection.
France thumped Bulgaria 4-1 in their World Cup 2018 qualification game last night as Kevin Gameiro was the hero with two fantastic goals. Gameiro’s fantastic performance would also be something that Atletico Madrid fans would be happy to see as his combination with Antione Griezmann was fantastic, on the night.
Also read: Antoine Griezmann feels he is yet to reach the level of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi
Dmitri Payet and Antoine Griezmann were also on the scoresheet as they capped off a good night of football. France will now face Netherlands on Monday, as they hope to go on top of the table.
Outcome of the Valbuena case soon
Benzema will know if any charges will be brought against him in the Valbuena case on 14 October. The Court of Appeal of Versailles’ investigating chamber will judge the Real Madrid man’s appeal.
If Benzema comes out innocent, it will be a shame that such a prolific player has missed out on precious game time for the national team.
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