Karim Benzema 'aiming to return from injury against Atletico Madrid'

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema is allegedly hopeful that he will be able to return from injury in next weekend's La Liga clash with Atletico Madrid.

The France international had to be replaced in the first half of Saturday's league contest with Real Sociedad due to a hamstring problem, and he has been ruled out of Tuesday's Champions League clash with Inter Milan.

According to Marca, Benzema will undergo a series of tests on Monday to determine the seriousness of the issue.

However, the experienced striker is reportedly hopeful that he will be able to return to the field for next Sunday's league match against Real Madrid's bitter rivals at Bernabeu.

Benzema has been in excellent form for Carlo Ancelotti's side during the 2021-22 campaign, scoring 17 times and contributing eight assists in 20 appearances in all competitions.

Saturday's 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad moved Los Blancos eight points clear at the top of La Liga, boasting a total of 39 points from their opening 16 matches.