Benzema prevented from France return

The French football federation have temporarily kept Karim Benzema on the suspended list while he remains at the centre of a sex-tape bribery inquiry.

The France and Real Madrid striker has been excluded from national duty since December when he was placed under investigation over an attempt to bribe international teammate Mathieu Valbuena.

Reports suggest France coach Didier Deschamps had included the player in his squad for two upcoming friendlies but teh nation’s football federation (FFF) had other ideas despite last week’s ruling by a judge that lifted restrictions on his movements and meeting with Valbuena – a ruling that effectively cleared the path for his eligibility to be selected for the national team.