Real Madrid President backs Karim Benzema

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema received the backing of his club on Thursday, just hours after being charged in connection with a sex tape extortion case.

The 27-year-old was released by French prosecutors earlier in the day in a blackmail case involving a tape featuring fellow French international Mathieu Valbuena.

Despite training alone, Real’s president leapt to the defence of the French international.

“Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, held a meeting with the player in which he gave him his full support and expressed his confidence that his actions were in good faith and that he is completely innocent,” said the club’s statement

“The club values and recognises the professional commitment and displays of camaraderie with his teammates.” the statement read.