REVEALED: Three France players happy that Benzema did not play the world cup

Many senior France players were happy coach Didier Deschamps axed Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema from the squad before the World Cup kickoff.

Ballon d'Or winner Benzema was sent home on the eve of the tournament after picking up an injury, but there was some speculation that he could have returned for the final after playing in a friendly for Real Madrid.

However, he reportedly rejected the opportunity to go back to Qatar after falling out with manager Didier Deschamps, and took to social media to confirm that he has decided to call time on his international career after the final defeat.

AS says Atletico Madrid striker Antoine Griezmann felt too much social media coverage was spent on the Real Madrid striker and not covering him during the build up and during the tournament.

The report goes on to claim that Griezmann was 'concerned' over how little he appeared on social media compared to Benzema, which nearly prompted an 'executive meeting' with the French Football Federation to address these concerns.

Two others who are no longer followed by Benzema on social media – AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud and Les Bleus captain Hugo Lloris, of Tottenham – are also said to have 'expressed doubts' over Benzema's impact on the squad.

Paul Pogba, who was not called up to France's World Cup squad due to injury, is also reportedly said to have doubts over Benzema's role in the team.