Didider Deschamps backs strike duo to fill Karim Benzema void

Didier Deschamps has said that he is confident the form of Olivier Giroud and Antoine Griezmann will ensure France do not miss star striker Karim Benzema.

Les Bleus head into forthcoming friendly fixtures against Germany and England without their prolific forward, who has been omitted from the squad while investigations into matters off the field continue.

Despite Benzema's absence, Deschamps believes that Giroud and Griezmann - who have 15 goals between them for their club sides this term - can more than step up to the plate.

"[Giroud] is one of six offensive players who have a role to play between Friday and Tuesday." he is quoted as saying by FourFourTwo.

"[Griezmann] is a player who has grown through his club change. He is effective, even if he can improve. He continues to benefit his team. If he maintains what he doing now that would be a very good thing."

There is also a place in the France squad for Bayern Munich loanee Kingsley Coman, who has earned his first senior call-up following a string of impressive displays this campaign.