Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema admits he has benefited from Cristiano Ronaldo's sale to Juventus.

Benzema has produced career best form in the absence of the Portuguese great.

He told El Pais: "Cristiano's departure allowed me to play a different role.

"He scored 50 goals every year and you had to adapt to his game. He is one of the best in the world and I was happy by his side."

On Real coach Zinedine Zidane, he also only had good words: "He is an older brother for me, he is always there to advise me."