Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema is hoping to force his way back
into the first-team reckoning at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The France international was one of a host of big-money
arrivals over the summer, with Real president Florentino Perez
ushering in a new Galacticos era in the Spanish capital.
Having established a glowing reputation during his days with
Lyon in his homeland, much was expected of the burly 22-year-old
forward.
He initially settled well in the Primera Liga, quickly
becoming an established member of Manuel Pellegrini's starting XI.
However, he has slipped down the pecking order of late and
regularly finds himself among the Real substitutes.
Benzema admits the situation is far from ideal, with the
World Cup fast approaching, but is adamant that he has the ability
to become a leading light in Real's galaxy of stars.
"In a way, yes, I am disappointed to have become a
substitute," he told L'Equipe.
"But this is part of my job. I am at a big club and I am
still learning. I won't get angry with things.
"I am working hard to convince the coach that I can be
trusted. I am still very motivated and I would like to play all the
time.
"I am experiencing a time when I am a substitute at the
moment, but it is up to me to find a position in the starting XI
again."
