Real Madrid defender Pepe has talked up the qualities of Rafa Benitez.

Benitez, after it was confirmed he would be leaving Napoli yesterday, is now in talks with Real about the senior job, says AS.

Pepe said: "He's not part of Real Madrid. He's coach at Napoli and I won't discuss it because it would be disrespectful to Napoli fans and also the club".

Pepe was happy to talk about the Spanish coach's abilities though, saying "he's a good coach, he's done a good job wherever he's been, especially at Liverpool".