By Razeen Gutta
Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema is available and can be called upon by France for the Fifa World Cup final, having initially been ruled out of the tournament.
A timely return from injury for the Real Madrid forward could see him fly to Qatar, replace the in-form Olivier Giroud and lift the ultimate prize. Surely not, though?
Technically speaking, it is possible. With France opting not to call upon a replacement following Benzema’s injury, they would be allowed to play him.
Physically, it might be possible as well, with Spanish outlet Marca among the publications to confirm his return to fitness, claiming that he has been in training without any issues all week.
Despite scoring 44 goals last season, starting the star man may be unfair to the attackers who got France to the final, though. Particularly former Arsenal and Chelsea man Giroud.
The 36-year-old became France’s all-time leading goal scorer during the tournament, scoring four goals including the quarter-final winner against England. Didier Deschamps would not want to drop him now, would he?
When asked the question about Benzema’s availability, the France boss let out no secrets. “I don’t really want to answer that question, sorry,” he said in his press conference.
Whether or not Benzema returns in time, starts the game or comes on as an impact substitute remains to be seen, with France looking to become the first nation in 60 years to successfully defend the World Cup crown.
Pictured above: Karim Benzema
Image source: @hrachoff
