Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has paid tribute to Jese Rodriguez following his strike in Monday's 3-0 win over Inter Milan.

The Spaniard started through the middle for Los Blancos during the International Champions Cup match in China, and restored Benitez's faith with the opening goal of the contest.

Jese struggled to replicate his 2013-14 form last season following a serious knee injury, but Benitez believes that the 22-year-old has now 'improved his quality'.

"He previously had an injury. When you have continuity, as we are seeing with him, it improves your fitness, and his quality has improved," Benitez told reporters.

"[Jese's] showing desire [to improve his game] and that's what matters. The versatility of our players makes us stronger. You need a good attitude, and he has it."

Jese made his first-team debut for Real Madrid in 2011 and has since scored 12 times in 56 games for the Spanish giants.