Rafa Benitez has played down Real Madrid injury problems despite the recent losses of Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, James Rodriguez, Raphael Varane and Danilo.
“We do not have too many injured players, just those of a large team that plays a lot of games and at a very high level. We played against strong teams during the preseason and we have begun the season with intensity. There have also been international games and two players got injured when away on international duty. We are within the figures,” he explained.
The Spaniard believes his squad is strong enough to make it through these problems: “We have a side with quality to make up for the injuries. Everyone must feel that they can participate. Depending on the players we have available we will use one system or another.”
Los Blancos will take on Granada at the Santiago Bernabeu in the fourth date of La Liga. Benitez believes it will be a tough game: “Granada are very quick, they are physical in attack and are well trained tactically. They are quick on the wings, we must be attentive to their counterattacking and they can hurt us if we are not focused.”
Benitez praised goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who has not conceeded a single goal this season in official competition: “He is sensational, like all of the team who have helped him out. He played a crucial role by making big saves and I am happy for him and for the team.”
The Los Merengues boss revealed Varane if fit to play despite picking up a blow last Tuesday against Shakhtar Donetsk: “I have not decided who will play. He is fit, but our only aim is to win the game against Granada. We have a sufficient performance level to have guarantees going into any game.”
