Rafael Benitez lavishes praise on Casemiro

Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has praised Brazilian midfielder Casemiro for his performance in Sunday's Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid.

The 23-year-old was somewhat of a surprise starter in the La Liga clash at the Vicente Calderon, but put in an impressive display as Los Blancos secured a share of the spoils against their rivals.

Benitez, who picked Casemiro over Mateo Kovacic, has said that the Brazilian international is 'a player that can help the team a lot'.

"I've played him in other games. He's a player who can help us a lot. He's very good for any type of match," Benitez told reporters.

Casemiro returned to Real Madrid in the summer after spending the 2014-15 campaign on loan with Portuguese side Porto.