Rafael Benitez has backed Gareth Bale to thrive at Real Madrid once more this coming season.

The 26-year-old came in for heavy criticism during his second year at the Bernabeu, which led to questions being asked over his future.

However, Bale now looks certain to remain in the Spanish capital for another campaign at least, and Benitez believes that the Welshman will hit top form.

"Gareth is a huge player for us and I know that he's happy," he is quoted as saying by BBC Sport. "I'm not going to talk about offers. Everything is well and he's going to have a good season with us I'm sure."

Bale, who cost Madrid a world-record fee of £85m in 2013, found the net 17 times for Los Blancos last term.