‘No doubts about James’

Rafa Benitez insists he recognises the quality of James Rodriguez after the midfielder starred in Real Madrid’s rout of Real Betis.

James scored two spectacular goals in the 5-0 triumph and Benitez was asked about the Colombia international at his post-match Press conference.

“He joined much later than the rest because of the Copa America and needed to get up to speed,” the Coach replied, Marca reports.

“Nobody questions his quality. When we think he can add something to our play, he plays and at other times one of his teammates does.

“I’m not worried about the debate of whether to play one player or another. I want an XI to play, do it right and win for the team.”

Benitez continued on that theme, expressing his happiness with the overall performance, although he did touch on some moments of concern.

“I’m delighted with the team’s performance. There are things to improve, but it was just a matter of time to show that punch,” he continued.

“I’ll take a lot of positives with details to correct. In the first five minutes we had everything, aggression, intensity and a punch as a team.

“The negatives are two or three moments of forgetfulness that occurred and the penalty we gave away, but the win is overwhelmingly positive. We have to have the balance between defence and attack.

“The team gets forward, shoots on goal and defends relatively well. We have to continue in this direction.”

Tags James Rodriguez Rafa Benitez
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