France men's national team head coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed there will be no replacement for Karim Benzema in his squad for the World Cup. The reigning Ballon d'Or winner was ruled out of the tournament just a day before it was set to start, picking up a thigh injury in training.
A statement from the Real Madrid ace on social media read: "“In my life I have never given up… but tonight I have to think of the team as I have always done so reason tells me to leave my place to someone who can help our group to make a great world cup. Thank you for all your messages of support."
The current world champions had until Monday to call a replacement into the squad, however, Deschamps has decided against doing that, telling Telefoot: "Because I decided, simply… this is a quality group, united on and off the pitch. I have confidence in them."
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It was a huge call made by the head coach, who already had to replace forward Christopher Nkunku after he picked up a knee injury in training. The decision now leaves France an extra player light than most squads, despite there being other options to call upon in Benzema's absence.
One of those was former Arsenal man Lacazette, who has scored nine and assisted three in 15 Ligue 1 appearances since making his return to Lyon on a free in the summer. It led to plenty of fans having their say on the choice on social media.
@afcDW: "Deschamps saying he’d rather have no one than Martial or Lacazette. He’s so funny."
@rankingizzoh: "He is right both Martial and Lacazette are below average, their performances have been poor for years"
@eludr38: "That is an insult to all the players who didn't get a call up."
@AidenSylvesterr: "Man said an empty space is better than Martial and Lacazette."
@Tomisiin: "Deschamps looked at his options [Martial, Lacazette et al] and said "nvm we're good"
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