Karim Benzema comforted by support of Real Madrid bosses, teammates

Under-fire French striker Karim Benzema has expressed his gratitude to Real Madrid's executives and his fellow teammates as he battles charges of blackmail for an alleged sex-tape scandal involving Mathieu Valbuena.

Benzema was on target once more for Madrid, scoring a hat-trick as the Spanish outfit routed Malmo 8-0 to top Group A in the UEFA Champions League. Back in scoring form, Benzema says his teammates have been supportive during his legal proceedings, something he appreciates.

"My teammates have congratulated me (for scoring)," Benzema said, after the match. "For me the president is very important, and I have a lot of respect for him. I am happy here because the club backed me up. I play for my family, and other things don't matter to me.

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"It has been a great night with a lot of goals and a fantastic match for us all. A lot of goals, three for me, four for Cristiano (Ronaldo); the team are looking good. We're going to keep on like this.

"I did need this as I always do. Goals are very important for forwards, but it isn't just that; there has been the affection of the fans, of the president, of my teammates, and of the manager, too."

Benzema also commented on the backing given to him on the national team level by French legend Zinedine Zidane, who said he hoped Benzema would not be banned from Les Bleus as the investigation continues.

"We'll see what happens on Thursday," Benzema said. "This didn't need to happen for me to know that Zidane supports me and cares about me."