Make no mistake, Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez is frustrated with his situation at Real Madrid. The 26-year-old said as much ahead of Mexico's 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Sunday.
"My situation is frustrating," Hernandez said (via ESPN FC). "I participate, give my all in training, but as for playing in matches, the opportunities are minimal. I belong to a team but am not part of the important bit, the actual games."
"Sometimes my confidence is right down on the ground, even though I am trying for it to be up there, with the help of the people who are always at my side and who support me."
The Mexican international's minimal opportunities are reflected in his 217 minutes of play in La Liga. With the trio of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, plus the threat of Jese off the bench, it's understandable as to why Hernandez has failed to see the pitch this campaign.
That, however, is not an excuse according to Hugo Sanchez. The former Real Madrid striker believes Hernandez must raise his game to become a success at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"Javier needs to pound his fists on the table, strengthen his character and show who he is," Sanchez told ESPN.mx on Monday. "He is playing on the best team of all time, which is Real Madrid, and they have great players, but he shouldn't shrink because if he doesn't rise to that level, he will achieve nothing."
Hernandez took the first step on Sunday with a cracking strike that led Mexico's victory. Now, he must transfer that success back to the club level.
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