Benitez refuses to back Man City target Isco

Rafael Benitez refused to offer in-demand playmaker  Isco  assurances on playing time on the eve of Real Madrid 's trip to face Valencia .

Isco has struggled for regular action this season and reports continue to link with a January exit, but Benitez is happy to have the playmaker in reserve.

"I cannot play all of my players," he told reporters. "When one stops playing you always ask me why.

"Yesterday I was chatting to him, he trained very well."

However, Benitez did back James Rodriguez despite the Colombian reportedly being chased to Madrid's training ground by police, who are ready to issue a driving ban and fine the player for speeding at 200 kmh, on Friday.

The issue fits in with a frustrating season individually, which has seen the former Monaco man likewise struggle to force his way into Benitez's plans and substituted early in Madrid's 3-1 win over Real Sociedad.

Nevertheless, Benitez was quick to stick up for his player when quizzed on his brush with the law.

"It's a private matter, he explained to me what happened," the coach continued. "He's a fantastic kid, a serious kid. He has given us a full explanation.

Benitez has come under increasing pressure at the Bernabeu despite his team being only two points behind Barcelona in La Liga, but the 55-year-old sidestepped questions about his future.

"I stand by what I have said. I hope that Madrid win, then you can ask me about my future in the next two years," he concluded.

"Madrid fans have always applauded players who leave everything on the pitch. That's what I want from my players."

"As a coach I look for quality but people think that it is ball control and that is not, it's technical quality".

"The quality I'm looking for is delivery, sacrifice and technical quality. The players have to give it all on the field.

"I have full confidence in the team and I will not lose at Mestalla. We will try to get the three points and>