Olivier Giroud has joked about Karim Benzema's comments comparing him to a go-kart following the pair's reunion with France ahead of Euro 2020, with the Chelsea striker quipping that he will take his international team-mate on a celebratory lap if they triumph this summer.
The veteran forward duo have been named together for Les Bleus for the first time in six years , following the Real Madrid star's recall from the wilderness as Didier Deschamps looks to back up a Russia 2018 World Cup triumph across Europe.
Last year, Benzema claimed that he could not be compared to his fellow countryman however, claiming the difference between them was that of a Formula One vehicle and a go-kart - but now Giroud has laughed off the potential for any bad blood between the pair.
What has been said?
"There is no reason to hit it with Karim," the 34-year-old told Le Figaro , in the week where he penned a one-year extension to remain at Stamford Bridge after claiming a Champions League winner's medal last month.
"The statements he made about me made me smile and laugh more than anything else. I put myself in his shoes. It's not easy to come back like that. You have to know how to forgive and not hold a grudge,
Asked if the duo would do anything together in the event of victory at Wembley Stadium next month, Giroud added: "We will both go celebrate on a karting circuit. That will make a great photo!"
Duo head seasoned squad
Giroud and Benzema are among eight players aged 30 or over called up for Les Bleus' push for a second successive major honour, with the latter a full 11 years older than the youngest member of the squad in Kylian Mbappe.
Their experience is sure to provide a boost for Deschamps, who knows that his side will be firmly counted among the favourites, alongside defending champions Portugal - who they face in Group F - and the Russia 2018 semi-final pair of Belgium and England, among others.
Giroud has been handed the number nine shirt, suggesting a potential star role, though he was absent for Wednesday's friendly win over Wales, while Benzema started up front on his long-awaited return to the international fold, missing a penalty in a 3-0 victory.