Real Madrid boss Mourinho refuses to write off Benzema

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho insists he still believes in Karim Benzema.

He was given a rare start by Mourinho in Tuesday's goalless Copa del Rey clash in Murcia but put in a lacklustre performance and was substituted late on.

Mourinho, however, believes Benzema can turn things around.

He 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 tomorrow)."

"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."

"Tomorrow he will start on the bench and if he has to play, he will. We have a good relationship."