Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has heaped praise on his teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Croatia international described the Portuguese forward as a "phenomenon" and applauded his work rate in training.

"I knew he was a beast as a player, but I soon realised he is the number one to watch in training, or to apply himself. He's a phenomenon," he told Sportske Novosti.

Madric went on to say that he is determined to avoid another trophyless season at Real following the club's failure to secure silverware last term.

"The crowd always expect a lot from us, as it should be at Real Madrid. I couldn't say what the most important title is, but what I can't think about is another blank year," he added.

"We need to be more compact, to defend well and attack in harmony between the lines. We know the expectations are always growing and one cannot relax for a moment."

Real visit Levante in La Liga this evening.