Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has praised Jese Rodriguez for his contribution to Los Blancos' 3-0 win over Levante on Saturday.

The Spaniard has struggled for regular action this season, but scored the home side's third in their comfortable victory at the Bernabeu.

Jese is reportedly becoming increasingly frustrated with his lack of action at Real, but Benitez has said that the 22-year-old will be given first-team action if he continues to work hard.

"Saturday was much closer to what we all expect [from Jese]. The level of demand here is very high and he has to work as he did, with balance, hard work and zip," Benitez told reporters.

"He knows the path he must go down. The only way he can get minutes is by going out and proving he is worthy of them."

Jese, who has been with Real Madrid since 2007, has recently been linked with a loan move to Inter Milan.