France manager Didier Deschamps has claimed criticism of Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema is unfair and he is one of the best attackers in the world.
The 26-year-old has been nominated on the 23-man shortlist for the Ballon d’Or award, with the winner to be announced in January. And having been part of the team to win the Copa del Rey and the Champions League last season, Deschamps believes Benzema deserves his place on the list.
The forward divides opinion between the media and fans alike, with some believing he is a top player and other saying he should be more ruthless and contribute more in front of goal.
Speaking at a new conference on Thursday, the 1998 World Cup winning midfielder said those who criticise Benzema don’t really understand the qualities he brings to the team – both for club and country.
“After you know, between those who vote and those who are chosen, there are surprises too. Karim is now one of the offensive players, one of the strikers, very efficient in this year 2014. He is unfairly criticised and especially in France. Because abroad, he is still considered a high-level attacker. Of course, he could always be better, he may still be more decisive,” he stated.
And he went on: “But for me, it is a privilege to have Karim in the French team. He is beaming right now, efficient, he makes a lot of things in the game, for his team. He is a very important player for his club, Real Madrid, and for us. He is pleased to be there, it shows. He is a very high level striker.”
