Benzema Eager to Deliver for Madrid after Ronaldo Departure

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has accepted he must step up for the LaLiga giants after the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema, whose best haul for Madrid was 32 goals in 2011-12, said he had to take more onus after Ronaldo left the club.

"A little bit more now that Cristiano has gone; now he's not here to bring us goals so it's up to me to do that," he told Real Madrid TV.

"I feel very motivated and I'm ready to take on the task."

Under Santiago Solari, Madrid have recovered from an abysmal start to the season, now are just four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona despite being in sixth.

Benzema, 30, said the club always wanted more from him, and he is eager to deliver.

"They always ask me for more," he said. 

"Madrid is the best club in the world. Everyone always wants more from a striker – more goals, more touches, more assists, it's normal.

"I'm more motivated than ever to make it a great year for us."

Madrid make the trip to Eibar in LaLiga on Saturday.