Karim Benzema is AVAILABLE for selection in France's World Cup final against Argentina and could feature on Sunday.
The Real Madrid superstar was ruled out before the tournament started after suffering an injury to his left thigh.
But he could return to the fold having not kicked a ball in Qatar due to an incredible loophole.
A three-week timeline was set for Benzema to return to fitness after picking up a crushing injury days before France's opening game.
Advert
Spanish outlet Marca state that he has returned on time and has been training without any issue since last Saturday.
He could make a shock return to the squad if Didier Deschamps needs to call upon his services because he was never replaced in the French team.
However, Benzema starting against Argentina would mean dropping Olivier Giroud, who has starred for France at this World Cup.
He's scored four goals, including his team's big winner against England in the quarter-finals.
The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker has been in fine form and appears set to start against Argentina on Sunday.
Deschamps, though, has the star forward seemingly waiting in the wings, with the 34-year-old scoring a staggering 44 goals in all competitions last season, which saw him win the prestigious Ballon d'Or for the first time in his career.
He has six goals in all competitions to his name this term in view to playing a part in the final.
Speaking during the group stage, though, Deschamps played down suggestions Benzema could return.
"It's not something I'm thinking about now," the France boss said earlier in the tournament. "I spoke to Benzema after he left the training camp.
"I leave it to you if you want to have a debate about it. The thought hasn't crossed my mind."
Deschamps was quizzed on the matter once again after his side qualified for the final but was coy in his response.
“I don’t really want to answer that question, sorry,” he told journalists.
Will Benzema feature for France against Argentina? Watch this space.
Topics: Karim Benzema, France, Football World Cup
Nasir Jabbar