Napoli boss Rafael Benitez has claimed that Gonzalo Higuain is "the most essential player" at the Italian club.

The 25-year-old, who has netted eight times in 14 games for the Serie A club this season, joined Benitez's side from Real Madrid in the summer.

"Our team is based on the collective, although there is Higuaín who could be the most essential player here right now. He doesn't only score goals, he also makes the team play better," Benitez told Marca.

Napoli currently sit third in Serie A.