Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema declared fit for El Clasico

Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has confirmed that striker Karim Benzema is fit to play in this weekend's El Clasico against Barcelona at the Bernabeu.

The France international, who was charged a fortnight ago in connection to an alleged sex-tape blackmail plot against Mathieu Valbuena, has been struggling with a hamstring injury.

However, in today's press conference, Benitez confirmed that Benzema will be included in the matchday squad as he has impressed in training.

"Benzema is in the squad, he has trained well," Benitez told reporters. "He is with the group. We will decide if he plays. Obviously we will play the strongest team we have because it is Barcelona."

Madrid, who suffered their first league defeat of the season prior to the international break, are currently second in La Liga, three points below leaders Barcelona.