Connect with us

Manchester United

Bad news for Anthony Martial as Didier Deschamps decides against replacement for Karim Benzema

Anthony Martial’s chances of a late World Cup call-up have been dashed with manager Didier Deschamps saying that France don’t require a replacement for Karim Benzema.

Benzema has been Les Bleus’ leading striker over the past year, but he won’t play any part at the upcoming World Cup in Qatar after suffering a fresh thigh injury in training.

The holders have the option to pursue a replacement over the next 48 hours, but Deschamps has told Telefoot that he is confident with the current set of players for the tournament.

He said: “No [when asked whether Benzema would be replaced]. Because I decided, simply. This is a quality group, united on and off the pitch. I have confidence in them.”

Bad news for Anthony Martial

Martial has had a difficult season at United with three separate injuries. Despite this, his form has been quite spectacular with four goals and two assists from just seven outings.

The 26-year-old was able to return to full fitness in the weeks leading up to the World Cup break and he could have been a wildcard for Les Bleus in their defence of their title.

However, Deschamps has opted to stick with a 25-man squad after Benzema’s exit. France still have quality with Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud to start up front.

The news will come as a huge disappointment for Martial, who won’t get a last-minute call-up, but looking into the wider picture, he has plenty of time on his hands to work over his fitness.

Martial has been injury-prone for the past 18 months and the mid-season break could be beneficial for him. Erik ten Hag recently said that he is the perfect player to lead the line for him.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

More in Manchester United