Former Real Madrid manager, Zinedine Zidane has revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema helped him during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Zidane was hired for the job in January 2016 as replacement for current Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez.

Zidane shocked the football world as he steered the club to the La Liga title and three consecutive Champions League crowns.

The Frenchman, however, dumped the club back in May and was joined out of the exit door by Ronaldo two months later.

Ramos, the club captain, was on side from the beginning having previously caused ripples by clashing with Benitez and Jose Mourinho.

And Zidane has now praised the Spain international and Ronaldo for what they did for him.

“Both are players with a lot of energy and influence within the squad,” Zidane was quoted by Express Sports

“Sergio Ramos is a natural leader and a great presence in the dressing room, while Cristiano Ronaldo is a leader on the pitch that inspires his teammates.

“They complemented each other well.”

Zidane also explained why he would keep faith with Benzema despite the striker’s troubles in front of goal.

“Karim was important for the balance of the team in terms of how he wanted the team to attack,” he said.

“Helping to implement our possession game by playing with his teammates, he’s a true team player,” he added.