Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has hinted that the midfield area of his team is currently in good shape after discussing Mateo Kovacic and Casemiro's performances this term.

Luka Modric and Toni Kroos are the two senior central midfielders in the Real Madrid squad, but Kovacic, 21, joined from Inter Milan in the summer and Casemiro returned from a loan at Porto.

Both Kovacic and Casemiro have played their part this season and Benitez has had his say on the pair.

"Mateo Kovacic? I knew enough about him. I wanted to sign him for Napoli. He's a player with a great future," Benitez told COPE.

"We brought Casemiro back because we needed that kind of player. He's someone who listens."

Casemiro started Sunday's Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid in a defensive position behind Modric and Kroos.