Benzema 'returning to top form'

"I have felt very good in the last few matches. I notice that I am making progress and that my legs are responding better. I am very pleased," the 24-year-old said in an interview published in sports daily AS.

"It was very good for me playing for France two times for the entire 90 minutes. It is important to play several matches in a row. I am also working a lot to get in top form."

Benzema played a key role in France's 1-0 win over Finland in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier as he set up Abou Diaby for the only goal of the game.

He also took part in France's 3-1 win over Belarus four days later.

"I never lost confidence, I am always sure of myself and my game," Benzema said.

"I am a scorer and I love to score but everyone knows that I enjoy when I can to provide assistance."

Benzema joined Real in 2009 after helping French side Lyon win four league titles.