Mathieu Valbuena and Karim Benzema have been left out of France’s squad to face Germany and England this month.

France striker Karim Benzema has been charged with conspiracy to blackmail and participating in a criminal group as part of an investigation over a sex tape involving team-mate Mathieu Valbuena.

A judicial source said Benzema will be taken before a judge later on Thursday after being held overnight by police for questioning.

France striker Karim Benzema has been arrested as part of an investigation into a blackmail case over a sex tape involving another player.

A police official said Benzema was taken into custody after being summoned to a Versailles police station.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema risks missing the start of the season after being diagnosed with a thigh injury.

Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez remains confident Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema will both still be at the Bernabeu this coming season.