BBC Must Contribute Defensively – Vazquez

Lucas Vazquez believes Real Madrid’s attacking trio of Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo must step up their contribution in defence as the club aims to win La Liga for the first time since 2012.

Madrid sit two points clear of Barcelona at the top of the table, while they need just a point at Sporting Lisbon on Nov. 22 to qualify for the Champions League round of 16.

However, Los Blancos have kept just three clean sheets this season and given away a total of 18 goals in all competitions, including 10 in 11 league games.

“A team is based on everyone working,” Madrid forward Vazquez told Cadena Cope. “The ‘BBC’ [Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo] and the central midfield have to help the defence so that we don’t concede so many goals.”

Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo have combined for 19 goals in all competitions for Madrid this season.

Vazquez, who signed a new contract with the club last month until June 2021, has made just three starts this season.

However, the 25-year-old is happy to have made the most of his playing time when coming off the bench — something he has done 12 times.

“It doesn’t matter whether or not the ‘BBC’ is untouchable,” Vazquez said. “The coach is the one who decides who plays and we just have to train. I don’t know what will happen in two or three years’ time but I’m happy at Real Madrid.

“I feel fortunate — I do what I like and I get paid for it. Since I was a boy, I’ve dreamed of playing for Real and I treat every game like it’s a final. Getting angry at not playing doesn’t help anyone. You just have to do your best for the side when you come off the bench.”

Vazquez, who is currently with the Spain squad preparing for Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Macedonia, feels he has the trust of Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane.

“Zidane speaks to me and says he has trust in me and that he likes me as a player,” he said.