Nice winger Hatem Ben Arfa has admitted that it was "emotional" for him to be called up to the France national squad for the first time in four years.

Ben Arfa last played for France in the 2011-12 season whilst at Newcastle United, but an impressive start to his first season back in his home nation was rewarded when he was named in Dider Deschamps' squad for the friendlies against Germany and England later this month.

The 28-year-old thanked Deschamps for having confidence in him and admitted that he was moved to have been selected for his country again.

He told France Football: "I am very emotional about this call-up.

"I am really very happy to be able to return the the French national team and I want to thank the manager for having confidence in me, to call me up."

Ben Arfa has scored seven goals in 12 appearances so far in his first season back in Ligue 1.