Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke has been left out of Belgium’s World Cup squad.

Belgium manager Roberto Martinez opted for Michy Batshuayi and Romelu Lukaku as Benteke did not make the final 23-man cut.

It caps off a miserable 12 months for the former Aston Villa, who scored just three goals last season.

Martinez said: "Christian Benteke has been the toughest decision, but it is for the balance of the squad.

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"We have two number 9's - Michy Batshuayi and Romelu Lukaku have taken those positions."

Belgium are in Group G in the World Cup where they will face Panama, Tunisia and England.