France striker Karim Benzema claims he is glad to be facing Real Madrid teammate Sergio Ramos, instead of Gerard Pique or Carles Puyol.
The Los Blancos colleagues will clash at the Vicente Calderon tomorrow evening when Spain host France in a World Cup qualifier.
Ramos has had a muscle problem but is expected to play, with Barcelona centre-backs Pique and Puyol absent injured.
“There have been messages,” Benzema grinned in front of journalists in Madrid. “The person I've talked to most is Ramos, because he's my friend. I'd prefer to play against him rather than Pique or Puyol, because I know him better.
“Spain are the best team in the world. I play in a team which has many Spanish internationals, and I know their quality. Having said that, I don't think they're unbeatable. This isn't mission impossible, its 11 against 11.”
Benzema was also asked about the venue – home of Real's arch rivals Atletico – and teammate Iker Casillas.
“The Calderon is tough, whether you're playing against Atletico or Spain.
“Casillas is one of the greats. There's nothing more to say.”
