Benzema to use painkilling injections to start Wednesday against Manchester City

Karim Benzema is willing to use painkilling injections that will allow him to start next Wednesday's return leg of the Champions League semifinals against Manchester City.

The French striker had to leave the first leg at the half-time whistle after re-injuring his hamstring and couldn't train with the rest of the squad nor participate in Madrid's match against Real Sociedad last Saturday.

This painkilling injection could be risky, though, as Benzema's hamstring could get even worse if he doesn't feel the pain that warns him something isn't going the way it should.

Benzema is a crucial player in Madrid's offensive schemes and so is Cristiano Ronaldo, who appears to be edging closer towards getting the start next Wednesday as well.

Both players will most likely try to pass a fitness test next Tuesday to see if they're fit enough to face Sergio Agüero, Kevin De Bruyne and the rest of Manuel Pellegrini's men.