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Real Madrid coach Benitez insists he has no problem with James

Xinhua, December 1, 2015 Adjust font size:

Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez on Tuesday said he had no problems in his relationship with Colombian international midfielder, James Rodriguez, whilst also giving a vote of confidence to striker Karim Benzema.

The Spanish and Colombian press have speculated over a breakdown in relations between Benitez and James in recent weeks as the player, who on Monday was named the best midfielder in the Spanish league for the 2014-15 season, has not enjoyed the first team action he would have expected after returning from a muscle injury.

"We forget he has been out of action for 55 days... James has my support and full confidence, but this is Real Madrid and there is maximum competition between players. My aim is for all of them to play well," said Benitez, who also had words for Karim Benzema, who will face trail in France for his alleged role in a blackmail plot against fellow French international Mathieu Valbuena.

"I consider him (Benzema) to be a key player for us. He is a great lad and he has all out support, while he is also a great player who makes others play better," said Benitez of the Frenchman.

Two wins in two games after their 4-0 thrashing at home to FC Barcelona have calmed the waters at the club, who play in the King's Cup knockout competition against Cadiz on Wednesday.

"We have got confidence and have played two solid games and now we have a difficult game against a historic side who could surprise us. We have to respect Cadiz and go there with the aim of playing as well as possible," said the Real Madrid coach, who said he would rest some first team regulars for the first leg. Endit