AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud is sorry seeing Karim Benzema retire from France.

The Real Madrd ace and Ballon d'Or has quit France after falling out with coach Didier Deschamps.

Giroud said, "It's a shame to end like this. It was his choice, we can't put ourselves in his place. I respect everything he did for France, in his club, in his career, and I respect his decision.

"I would have liked a different ending but it's his decision. He must have heard that his history with the national team is over.

"The clash with Deschamps? It doesn't concern me, I won't comment. In any case, it is certain that we were sad to see him leave like this before the World Cup, knowing that it would certainly be his last participation. It hurts to leave due to injury."