France coach Didier Deschamps has handed N'Golo Kante a shock lifeline.

The central midfielder is back with the national team despite not playing in Europe anymore.

Kante has been impressive in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad over the past few months.

However, Chelsea striker Christopher Nkunku has not made it into the squad, given his injury issues this season.

Premier League trio Alphonse Areola, William Saliba and Ibrahima Konate have been included.

Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has earned a first callup, alongside club teammate Kylian Mbappe.