Samir Nasri
Manchester City's Nasri runs with the ball during their Champions League match in Villarreal. REUTERS Reuters

Samir Nasri has been ruled out of France's forthcoming friendlies against the USA and Belgium because of a knee tendon problem suffered in Manchester City's Champions League win against Villarreal last week.

The France Football Federation has confirmed that the Nasri has left the squad after tests at their headquarters in Clairefontaine revealed inflammation in the 24-year-old's left knee.

"Samir Nasri reported for France duty at Clairefontaine with a left patellar tendon injury," a statement on the FFF's official web site read.

"A clinical examination and additional tests confirmed the inflammation and, consequently, the inability of the palyer to be fully fit has meant he will not play in the two internationals against the United States [Friday, 11 November] and Belgium [Tuesday, 15 November].

"Samir Nasri will now be allowed to return to his club."

The former Arsenal midfielder was an unused sub in City's 3-2 win over QPR last weekend after the long-term problem re-surfaced in the win over Villarreal.

"I have a problem in my knee since the Villarreal match. It's an old issue which is resurfacing," he told French television.

French coach Laurent Blanc has a number of selection issues ahead of Saturday's match, with both Yohan Cabaye (groin) and Florent Malouda (thigh) struggling to recover from injuries and Loic Remy also sidelined.

"We'll see who's missed out in the first game and could recover for the second," said Blanc. "Based on that, we'll see if I recall one or two players."