Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has released a statement after he was forced out of France's World Cup squad due to injury.

Benzema was forced out of a training session on Saturday evening having only joined his teammates for the first time in a full session having previously been nursing a couple of issues. His participation did not last long at all though as he was forced to step out.

Benzema has offered his view on his injury with a short statement on Twitter. He suggested that his decision was purely for the betterment of the reigning world champions.

The 34-year-old wrote: "In my life I have never given up but tonight I have to think about the team as I have always done so reason tells me to leave my place to someone who can help our group make a good World Cup.

"Thank you for all your messages of support."