Real Madrid's Meija: Raul not to blame for last season

Real Madrid defender and homegrown product Alvaro Mejía has joined the debate over club skipper Raul.

Real's players have leapt to the defence of Raul, who has been criticised for his form over the past six months.

"I do not believe that Raul is struggling. For the players who come through Real Madrid's system, he continues being our idol, the one we all follow."

"Perhaps he is not crossing the best moments of his career, but this season he is going to produce a great campaign."

"Last year the team in general was not at its best level and the culprit was not only Raul. This year, the team is going to be successful. The results are a question of all and not of only one player."