Mourinho defends Benzema, praises Ronaldo

(GSM) – Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has leaped to the defense of striker Karim Benzema, who has faced some staggering criticism over his below-par recent performances.

The forward again put in a lacklustre performance in Tuesday’s goalless Copa del Rey clash against Real Murcia and was eventually substituted.

Still, Mourinho hopes the 22-year-old French striker, who joined the Madrid giants from Olympique Lyon for €35million in the summer of 2009, can still fulfill his promise at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Mourinho said: “I have always believed that players should be held responsible (for their performances). The coach is nothing more than a collaborator. It is up to the player.

“Much has been written about him, but the majority of it is untrue.

“He isn’t playing well, but he isn’t dead. He is very much alive and I called him up (for the squad to play Hercules on Saturday).

“We hope he can improve because he has the potential.

“Other teams have great players in similar situations and nothing has been said about them. Football is like this. Strikers feed off goals.

“Saturday he will start on the bench and if he has to play, he will. We have a good relationship.”

Meanwhile Mourinho, whose team remains unbeaten this season, hailed compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent performances.

“Cristiano is an incredible team player,” said the Madrid boss. “He won two games with Portugal and has won every game with Real Madrid this month.

“That’s all that matters to the two of us.

“I knew the player, not the person. Now I know him and he is a true winner. He is always concerned about the team and about winning. He has had a fantastic month, he is in great form and he wants to continue.”

Mourinho is thrilled with the way his team has quickly adjusted to his tactics ahead of Madrid’s away trip to play Hércules.

“Those who work closest with the first team have adjusted and are pleased with the way we are organised,” he said.

“Structure is very important to the team and we are playing well for having been together for such little time. Sitting top in the Champions League and La Liga brings stability. I am very comfortable and happy.”

And Mourinho has every reason to be delighted with his side as Real Madrid currently sit top of the Primera Division and their Champions League group.