Zinedine Zidane's long-time No2 David Bettoni is full of praise for Karim Benzema.

Bettoni admits being snubbed by France coach Didier Deschamps worked in his favour.

He recalled: "What played in his favour was the period when he was no longer called up for the France team.

"I think he always had this Blues goal in his mind, but he kept in mind that he had to be always good with Real. He was working well, but I think he added something to his work at that time. With Zizou, we saw him transform physically. I think it played on his mind, on his energies. I saw him better as a man, more mature.

"He has become an exceptional leader, he has taken up the torch with a lot of personality after Ronaldo, while he has always been in his shadow. He's someone who doesn't talk a lot, but when he talks in the locker room he is listened to, respected, loved. He loves to talk to players individually. He's a great professional."