This Real Madrid 'gem' has just been told he hasn't been good enough

Real Madrid's inconsistent form has been a massive issue this season but there have been several reasons for this. Injuries to key players has taken its toll, particularly in defense where Antonio Rudiger has rarely been available.

Eder Militao has also spent a lengthy spell on the sidelines and the Brazilian's experience has been missed. The hugely successful Madrid teams of years gone by have often possessed at least one veteran center-back who is a leader.

Los Blancos swooped for one of Europe's most in-demand defenders last summer when they paid Dean Huijsen's €58 million release clause to sign him from Bournemouth. Expectations were sky high given his displays in the Premier League.

Real Madrid's Dean Huijsen criticised

Huijsen has struggled to win over a large section of the Madrid fanbase amid some unconvincing displays at the back. He is still only 20 and its easy to forget just how much pressure comes with wearing a Los Blancos jersey.

It's not just supporters who are voicing their concerns over Huijsen as those who have played or worked in Spanish football are also giving their opinions. Former Sevilla boss Quique Sanchez Flores has weighed in on the debate over the Spaniard.

Flores gave a grim verdict of what he's seen from Huijsen so far at the Bernabeu, telling Diario AS: "I've never seen him at a very high level at Real Madrid"

Huijsen was a dominant prescence in Bournemouth's defense last season and showed maturity beyond his years. Those who watched him perform believed Madrid had got their hands on one of the most promising defenders in world football.

Sky Sports commentator Bill Leslie spoke highly of the Spanish center-back when speculation over his future ensued. He said: "They’ve unearthed a gem there, haven’t they."

Huijsen has yet to reach the level that preceded him at Bournemouth but Los Blancos need to keep patience with the young defender. He is still at the very start of his career and needs time to adapt to Spanish football.

Arbeloa is a fan of Huijsen

The man Huijsen currently has to prove his worth to is Madrid's caretaker manager Alvaro Arbeloa. He has continuously put his faith in the Spain international during his reign this far.

Arbeloa praised Huijsen and his defensive partner Raul Asencio ahead of Los Blancos' clash with Real Sociedad on Saturday (February 14th). He told the media (via Madrid Universal):

"Asencio and Dean Huijsen? We have players with huge potential, great players despite their young age. They are supposed to play in La Liga, and they are already international players. It's not easy to be a defender at Real Madrid, I know what I'm talking about. I'm very happy with their performance."

Huijsen has made 25 appearances across competitions this season, posting one goal and two assists. He's helped Madrid keep nine clean sheets and will be eager to silence his critics as he continues in Arbeloa's back four.