Karim Benzema insists he has ‘more responsibility’ for Real Madrid this season than he in previous campaigns.
The French forward has been afforded a greater prominence in attack following Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit to Juventus this summer.
“Every game I set myself the target of scoring goals, providing assists and helping the team to win,” Benzema told Codere, as cited by El Mundo Deportivo.
“I have more responsibility every year, this year I'm the third captain and I have to show many things that maybe were not as prominent before.
“I am very happy to be the seventh highest scorer in the history of the club, it gives me confidence and desire to do more for this club.
“I still remember when I arrived, I am left with that moment because it was my first time in the team of my dreams, how could you ever forget that.
“Talent is very important but more-so it is important to work hard, you can do many things with talent but you have to work hard to be at the highest level.
“We started La Liga very well, with a lot of quality, possession and victories that are very good for us. Now comes the Champions League where there are no easy games, the first is at home and it is very important to start well.
“You have to have the ball and possession to get more rhythm than the rival team, as Roma are very strong with some very good players.
“Motivation comes in every game, you have to look ahead because what we have done before is over, there are many important teams but if I have to say a favourite then I will always say Real Madrid.”