Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has insisted that he is "happy in Madrid" amid reported interest from the Premier League.
The French international helped Los Blancos claim a Champions League and Copa del Rey double last term, but has been strongly linked with a move away from the Bernabeu as the capital outfit attempt to raise funds for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.
However, the 26-year-old has played down suggestions that he could depart this summer.
"I'm happy in Madrid. This is my home. [There were difficult days] but I overcame them. At first, some mornings I said 'I have no desire' but I couldn't afford to give up," he told L'Equipe.
"I love working. In Madrid, we have meet for training between 10.30 and 11. I arrive at 9.30. After training I stay in the gym.
"I noticed this about Cristiano Ronaldo. At first I was like others, turning up at 10.30. I realised I should aim higher, like he does. Some people don't know the difference between a good game and a very good game. When I have a normal game, they say I'm no good."
Benzema scored 24 times for Madrid during the 2013-14 campaign.
Matt Law
