Anthony Martial's hopes of a late call-up to the World Cup have been dashed by France boss Didier Deschamps.
The Manchester United striker was touted as a potential replacement for Karim Benzema, who has been ruled out of the tournament in Qatar. Benzema has sustained a thigh injury and confirmed on Instagram that his tournament was over before it had even begun.
Speculation then arose as to whether Deschamps would call up a replacement, with Martial one of three possible names in contention. Deschamps was asked by a reporter on Sunday: "Will Karim Benzema be replaced?" The France chief responded: "No."
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It means France will have a 25-man squad despite being able to bump it up to 26. Benzema is the latest big name to sit out the tournament for the two-time winners. Chelsea's N'Golo Kante and former United man Paul Pogba are also missing due to injury concerns.
Martial has been restricted to just seven appearances for United this season but has an impressive four goals to his name already. France begin their campaign on Tuesday against Australia.
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