France boss Didier Deschamps has admitted that Karim Benzema's recent performances for his national team have not been up to the required standard.
The Real Madrid forward has also drawn criticism from his club's supporters this season despite scoring four times in six matches in the new campaign.
"The problem with Benzema is that he has been inefficient for a long time," Deschamps told Radio Francia Internacional.
"He says that he is not affected, but he gives the impression of a player who is not well. We speak of a lack of confidence and sometimes it takes a bit of luck too, because sometimes an opposition goalkeeper will make great saves.
"What differentiates the best attackers from the others is their effectiveness, but even so, they have all been through tough times as well. He knows what I expect of him and he realises that he can do more."
Benzema has scored just three times in his last 21 caps for France.
Matt Law
