Karim Benzema defends his perceived lack of effort during games and assures that his form for France and Real Madrid will not last the rest of his career.
The 25-year-old is under increased scrutiny with his form at international level having seemingly transferred to life with Los Blancos.
But, back on international duty with Les Bleus, who he has not scored in official competition for since September 2011, the striker has assured that he doesn’t think a change in playing style will help.
“I am a forward and for me to do defensive work in principle is important, but an attacker cannot work and run like the right-back,” Benzema has reflected to reporters today.
“I’m not going to run to Hugo Lloris’ goal. I must make the first pressure on the opponent, and that helps the whole team.
“I run 10km per game, I move much, so I consider this criticism to be unfair. In any case, there is no attitude problem. When I go on to the field, it is to play football.
“I am living a moment that is a little more difficult than in previous years. This is part of a player’s career.
“I must continue, work and not fall into a routine. I want to score and to be better. I am not unlucky, nor in respect to injuries.
“ I am hurt at not being able to help more the national team and to score more goals. For me it is important to be with the national team. In any case, I love football and will continue to be as I am.
“These are just phases. That this is the longest run in my career does not mean that it will last 10 years. I think it will end soon. I need to do more work and not let it fester in my head.
“I always play the same way. That we talk more about my number of goals is because I am a forward. I think about the chances and I know that I am the one that has to turn them into goals.
“I am not going to claim anything. I’m in the French team, I’m happy. This is a group, there is no No 1, 2 or 3. What only applies is that a player is on the field to help his team win.”
