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 sordid blackmail case involving international teammate Mathieu Valbuena.

French Prime Minister Manuel Valls added to the debate on Tuesday by claiming sportsmen who don’t behave in an “exemplary” manner shouldn’t play for national teams.

Benitez, however, said Benzema has his club’s full support and will continue to be a key player.

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“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 ahead of tonight’s Copa del Rey first round tie at Cadiz.

“He is a key player for us because he is a reference up front and makes those around him play even better.”

Benzema started Madrid’s humiliating 4-0 defeat at home to Barcelona 10 days ago after a six-week absence due to a hamstring injury, but was only introduced as a late substitute in wins away at Shakhtar Donetsk and Eibar in the past week.

“He is very important for us. He had a long time out with injury and we have to manage his minutes.”
That means he is unlikely to feature tonight, while Benitez also plans to rest Cristiano Ronaldo.