Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has paid a glowing tribute to Karim Benzema.

The Real Madrid striker hasn't been called up to the France national side for the last five years after a falling-out with head coach Didier Deschamps.

"I don't know why he doesn't play," Florentino Perez told Europe 1 Sport on Benzema's continued absence from the French squad.

"Karim is a unique player and I think his absence from the French national team is a great loss for them.

"Not calling up the best No.9 in the French national pool and in the world is a situation that no one can understand. It's a waste."

The Real Madrid president also took the opportunity to talk up Benzema's status at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

"He's a Real Madrid legend," Florentino added on the striker.

"He's won the confidence and the admiration of the fans."