Benitez backs Benzema’s role in Real Madrid

Madrid: Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez has restated his support for French striker Karim Benzema amid increasing criticism of Benzema’s off-field behaviour in his homeland. Benzema has been charged in France for his alleged participation in a blackmail case involving international teammate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex-tape. “I consider him a fundamental player for us. On a personal level I have said before that he is a great guy and he has our support,” Benitez said on Tuesday. “He is a key player for us because he is a reference up front and makes those around him play even better.”