Borja Mayoral has jumped to the defence of Real Madrid teammate Marco Asensio.

Asensio is being criticised this season for his poor form and fitness. The midfielder last week demanded his senior teammates take more responsibility.

But Mayoral, currently on-loan with Levante, says: "The responsibility is great and we ask more and more from players. But Marco is a smart guy, a hard worker and I do not think he wants to get the label of the guy saying who does not want to carry the team.

"In the end, they must all put their stone in the building. Does he have the potential to be one of the leaders of the team? Yes, there is no doubt, we all know his potential, he is young and has a great future in front of him."