Patrice Evra has claimed that Karim Benzema will hold the key to France's chances of success at Euro 2016 next summer.
Benzema found the net against both Armenia and Denmark in the past week, despite being targeted with jeers by some supporters during the match against the former.
Didier Deschamps has continued to put his faith in the Real Madrid striker, and Evra insists that his teammate will always have the backing of the squad.
"For me, Karim's a great striker," the full-back told RMC. "I'm not the coach, but I think in Didier Deschamps' eyes he's the number one.
"He must assume his status. He was whistled in Nice against Armenia but scored two goals in the end. He has to ignore the critics – he can't make everyone happy.
"I've told him to keep working. He knows that we will do all we can to make him shine."
Benzema has scored 27 goals in 81 games for France.
