Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has defended the captaincy of Iker Casillas.

Perez insists Casillas has been one of the club's great leaders.

"Iker Casillas is a Real Madrid and Spain legend - one of the great captains of the club's history," Perez told AS.

"He has shown that, as well as enjoying sporting success, he can take on board the success of the club.

"That's why we will be supporting him, so we can crowd the Palacio de los Deportes for the [charity] match that will take place on December 23."