France and Manchester United defender Raphael Varane says he had to make a lot of “sacrifices” to be fit for the World Cup in Qatar.

The 29-year-old was recently on the sidelines after injuring his thigh playing for Manchester United in October.

Varane thought his World dreams were dashed after he fell awkwardly during United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on October 22.

He didn’t play in France’s first game, a 4-1 win over Australia, but he was back in the starting lineup for Friday’s 2-1 win over Denmark, which sent Les Bleus to the round of 16.

“It was a difficult moment. At first I thought I had a more serious injury that it really was,” Varane said a press conference in Doha.

“I thought it was over for the World Cup.

“A sportsman’s life has ups and downs, you have to pick yourself up and come back stronger.

“I went into fast-track recovery mode, I put in a lot of effort and made a lot of sacrifices to be ready in time.

“It was difficult but I’m making the most of every moment. I know exactly what it means to wear the France jersey. I was desperate to overcome (his difficulties).”