Karim Benzema's international career has been one of the strangest stories in modern day football and it is something which has often blunted his reputation.

While other greats have driven through international football exploits, Benzema's appeal has never exceeded club football. His  international football career has been filled to the brim with controversy, poor relations, returns and dead ends. He could have gone on to become one of France's greats, but a bit like Eric Cantona, his reputation will always stick to clubs and stardom for them.

It is only fitting that in a year where he won the Ballon D'or, he announces his international retirement from the game.