Deschamps concerned by Benzema’s ‘efficiency’

Matthew Briggs

France coach Didier Deschamps claims he has concerns about striker Karim Benzema’s “efficiency”, but admits he needs more help in attack.

Ahead of Thursday’s friendly with Armenia in Nice, Benzema, 27, has scored just one goal in his last 12 appearances for France but has been in fine form this season with Real Madrid with seven goals in eight games in all competitions.

“There is the matter of Karim’s efficiency but it also depends on the players that are around him,” Deschamps said to L’Equipe.

“He still remains the best scorer in the French team.

“He wants to do better of course and he can do it.

“But we have 11 players in the team and everyone has the responsibility to help in attack.”

A player that Deschamps has big hopes for is Manchester United’s summer signing Anthony Martial.

The 19-year-old forward, who made his national team debut last month, has had a terrific start in England with three goals in four league appearances.

The former Monaco player won the PFA Fans’ Premier League Player of the Month award for August/September.

“With all the racket that there was before and after his arrival, many have realised that he has the quality,” Deschamps said. “His start to the season, his effectiveness, these are all good signs.

“It’s good that he has taken the bull by the horns.”

France, who will host the European Championship next year, head into the game against Armenia on the back of two wins.

The French won 1-0 at Portugal before two goals from Paris St Germain midfielder Blaise Matuidi earned them a 2-1 victory over Serbia in Bordeaux last month.

Deschamps, whose side has not had to go through an arduous qualifying campaign as they are guaranteed a place as the host nation of next year’s tournament, has played down the importance of the wins.

“We cannot brag about beating Portugal and Serbia,” he said.

“I’m very careful about the messages I send to my players.

“I demand the same from them whether we play against a less prestigious opponent.”

Armenia travel to France knowing they will not compete in next year’s tournament.

They are second bottom in Group I with two points from seven qualifiers with one game remaining.

Armenia, coached by Sargis Hovsepyan, have lost five of their last six games but did hold Denmark to a goalless draw in Yerevan last month.