The Spaniard was thrilled with the striker’s efforts as his double secured a 2-0 win over Torino to maintain the Partenopei’s title challenge

Napoli coach Rafa Benitez believes Gonzalo Higuain is still not at his best despite his double in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Torino.

The Argentina international scored twice from the spot in the first half to secure maximum points for the Partenopei at Stadio San Paolo, and Benitez was thrilled with his all-round contribution, despite insisting he can still improve.

“Higuain is still not at his best but he works hard for the team and does it well,” he told Sky Italia after the match. “Even when he is not playing at his best he is still a great player that can make the difference for us. It’s very positive that he put in a good performance after the victory against [Olympique de] Marseille.”

Napoli’s win keeps them level with Juventus on 22 points, five adrift of leaders Roma, and Benitez is fully confident his side can maintain their Scudetto challenge throughout the campaign.

“It’s a result that satisfies me although we could have scored more goals,” he continued.

“I will not look at the games of Roma or Juventus. My team has the quality to do well and fight for the title, I am convinced that Inter and Fiorentina can also fight for the title, it will be a race of five teams.”