Deschamps gives cryptic response about Karim Benzema playing in World Cup final

France boss Didier Deschamps gave a cryptic response when asked if Karim Benzema could feature in the World Cup final - letting out a sigh before smirkin and quickly saying 'next question'.

Les Bleus booked their place in the World Cup final against Argentina on Sunday with a 2-0 win over Morocco on Wednesday night - thanks to goals from Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani - but there has been much speculation about whether Benzema might make a stunning comeback having missed the whole tournament through injury.

However, the Real Madrid star recently returned to training and he is incredibly still registered in France's squad - so he could play a role in the final if he manages to recover in time for the huge game.

And Deschamps kept his cards close to his chest when asked about Benzema by a journalist in his post-match press conference.

The reporter said: 'There is a report today that Karim Benzema could come back to Qatar. First of all, is it true? And second of all, if it is, is there any possibility that you would be able to use him for a few minutes in the final if you needed him?'

Deschamps appeared to be irked by the question initially as he closed his eyes and puffed his cheeks, before saying 'I don't really want to answer that question,' and letting out a smile as he quickly said: 'Next question.'

He then started grinning as he turned his head and said 'I do apologise.'

The Frenchman was asked about Benzema again in the group stages and similarly batted the question away.

‘Wow. Well, I’m not sure [what to say], that’s really not something that I’m thinking about,' he said at the time. 'You seem to know a lot about the situation but I haven’t really been following who has been saying what.'

Benzema was ruled out of the World Cup after sustaining a thigh injury during France's first full training session in Qatar.

However, the 34-year-old has since returned to training with Real Madrid at their Valdebebas training complex, according to Marca, stoking up excitement among fans that he could make a dramatic comeback and play a part in the final - despite not playing a single minute of the World Cup.

Benzema, who won the Ballon d'Or for the first time in his career this year, has reportedly fully recovered from the injury.

He had initially been expected to be ruled out of action for at least three weeks.

In his place, striker Olivier Giroud has excelled in Qatar having scored four times to inspire his side's rise to the final on Sunday.