Lassana Diarra insists Karim Benzema will soon prove his worth at Real Madrid.
Benzema has made a mixed start to life at the Bernabeu since his summer switch from Lyon, with moments of brilliance punctuating ineffective spells and rumours of off-field disquiet.
"He can be one of the best strikers in the world," said former Chelsea and Portsmouth midfielder Diarra.
"He had never left Lyon. He was always with his family and always played for the same team. Being here alone is completely different for him. He has a lot to get used to."
"I think he will show what he can do in a year or a year and a half. He is a very good player."
Benzema at least has an ally in his old friend Diarra, with the midfielder also glad to have a fellow Frenchman in the same dressing room.
"It is very nice," said Diarra.
"I have known him for a long time. It is nice to play with him and it is good to be able to speak French outside the club."
"He is good for Madrid. He is young - only 22 years old. This is his first transfer so he needs a little time to get to know Madrid, the team and the players. I think his best is yet to come."