Real Madrid midfielder Marco Asensio has said that Zinedine Zidane retains faith in his ability, despite failing to hold down a regular starting role over the past couple of months.

Asensio made a blistering start to the campaign but since the beginning of October, the Spanish prospect has featured in just five starting lineups in all competitions.

Manchester United have been linked with a move for Asensio either in January or at the end of the season, but the playmaker has insisted that he has not contemplated leaving the Bernabeu.

The 21-year-old told Club del Deportista: "It is difficult to manage a squad as good as our one. He knows that he can count on me."He has a lot of confidence in me and he speaks to me a lot.

"I work hard every day to earn more minutes, but I am aware of where I am."I am at the best club in the world and I am happy at Real Madrid, so leaving has never crossed my mind."

Earlier this season, Asensio penned a new long-term deal with the La Liga giants until 2023.