Benzema - My time will come

Striker sure he will thrive in a France shirt in the future

By Patrick Haond   Last updated: 10th October 2008

Benzema - My time will come

Benzema: Believes

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Karim Benzema is confident he will soon translate his impressive form for Lyon onto the international stage for France.

Benzema is regarded as one of Europe's brightest talents after consistently impressive displays for his club.

He topped the Ligue 1 scoring charts last season and was linked with a big-money transfer away from Stade Gerland.

The 20-year-old has, however, come in for criticism from sections of the French media for his performances for his country.

But Benzema is sure he will one day be remembered as one of France's greats, as he prepares for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Romania.

"If I am a substitute against Romania there will not be a problem. I am at France's disposal," he told L'Equipe.

Struggle

"Against Serbia (last month) the coach [Raymond Domenech] believed it right to take me off at half-time.

"But it was just one half. This is does not merit controversy and claims I struggle at that level.

"It is logical people expect a lot from me. With Lyon I have performed well in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League.

"In the French team this has not been the same, but I believe it will come. I am just 20-years-old.

"One day it will go my way and people will say the contrary to what they say nowadays."