France coach Didier Deschamps admits Raphael Varane called him after retiring from international football several days ago.

The Manchester United defender announced his retirement as a France player earlier today.

Deschamps said after Varane's statement was released: “Raphael called me a few days ago to explain to me that he wanted to put an end to his international career.

"He is an intelligent boy, who knows how to take the time to reflect, weigh the pros and cons before deciding. Without going into the details of our exchange, Raphaël believes that he has reached the end of his adventure with the France team.

"I experienced a situation somewhat similar to his, I understand his arguments and respect his decision even if it may seem regrettable in view of all that he was able to do with the squad until the World Cup during which he behaved, from start to finish, like the leader we know."