Karim Benzema believes Didier Deschamps “bowed to the pressure of a racist part of France” by deciding to leave him off France's roster for Euro 2016.

The decision related to the player being placed under criminal investigation over an attempt to blackmail international team-mate Mathieu Valbuena in relation to a sex-tape, with the FFF president, Noël Le Graët, saying it was important for the sake of “strong harmony” within the squad.

“He [Deschamps] has bowed to the pressure of a racist part of France,” said Benzema, who scored 29 goals for Real Madrid last season as the Spanish club finished second in La Liga and won the Champions League. “He has to know that in France the extremist party reached the second round in the last two elections.

“I do not know, therefore, whether it is a decision only for Didier because I’ve gotten along with him, with the president, everyone. I do not have a problem with anyone. I am with France and wish them well.”