Benzema accuses Lineker of 'spreading hatred' after pundit's criticisms

Karim Benzema accused former players in the media of "spreading hatred" in his rebuttal to Gary Lineker's suggestion that the Real Madrid forward is overrated.

Lineker, a former Leicester City and Barcelona striker, caused a stir when examining Benzema's form in front of goal and concluding the Frenchman is only a "decent" forward considering the cast of superstars in the Spanish capital.

Ahead of Real Madrid's match against Tottenham at Wembley Stadium, Benzema responded by pointing out that players such as Lineker faced similar critiques during their playing days and suggested that the BBC Sport presenter was out of order.

"I find it harder to accept the criticism of former players who have gone on to become journalists and who spread their hatred around," Benzema said, according to the Independent's Jack Austin.

"They had the same difficulties, but have no solidarity. I feel embarrassed for him, frankly."

The war of words didn't end there, as Lineker defended his profession and accused Benzema of overreacting.