Karim Benzema could be in line for a sensational return to action with France at the World Cup.
The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner was named in Didier Deschamps' 26-man squad for Qatar but was thought to be out of contention after suffering a tear in his left thing during training on the eve of the tournament.
Les Bleus have coped well so far in the absence of the Real Madrid frontman, securing top spot in Group D with a game to spare after a pair of wins over Australia and Denmark.
France haven't been short of goals in those games, finding the back of the net on six occasions.
However, there will be sterner tests to come as the competition enters its knockout phase.
As France look to become the first nation to successfully defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962, having Benzema available would be a major bonus.
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How Benzema could still play for France at the World Cup in Qatar
A pair of reports suggest that the 34-year-old is almost ready to resume training and could - according to FIFA rules - still feature for his nation if Deschamps decides to call upon him.
Madrid-based journalist Carlos Rodriguez tweeted on Monday afternoon that Benzema was 'practically recovered' from his injury and ready to resume light training with Real this week.
This encouraging update soon piqued the interest of RMC Sport, who soon confirmed that Benzema was still officially a member of the French World Cup squad and would be eligible to play if selected.
Deschamps will, no doubt, be fully aware of Benzema's potential availability.
With the luxury of a squad containing a wealth of attacking talent such as Kylian Mbappe, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann and Ousmane Dembele, the French boss may decide he's got more than enough firepower to retain the World Cup without needing to rush Benzema back to action.
Now in his mid-30s and having battled a host of fitness problems in recent times, there's certainly an argument that Benzema - who has 37 goals in 97 outings for his country - needs to be protected.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - JUNE 23: Karim Benzema of France reacts after the linesman gives his goal as on offside. After a VAR check the goal stands and France score their second goal during the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Group F match between Portugal and France at Puskas Arena on June 23, 2021 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
However, with Qatar 2022 highly likely to be his last chance to shine on the World Cup stage, the player himself would surely love to be involved in his country's quest for glory - even if only in a cameo role - if his fitness allows.
Benzema to come off the bench and bag a winner for France in the final? It's a long shot, but it could happen.
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