Benitez backs Benzema

Real Madrid coach Rafael Benitez has restated his support for French striker Karim Benzema amid increasing criticism of Benzema's off-field behavior in his homeland.

Benzema has been charged in France for his alleged participation in a blackmail case involving international teammate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

French Prime Minister Manuel Valls added his voice to the debate on Tuesday by claiming sportsmen who don't behave in an "exemplary" manner should not play for the national team.