Fernando: 'We must believe in ourselves; there are 8 games to go'

UD Almería first captain Fernando Martínez spoke on UDA Radio about the team's progress this season and the crucial games left: 'We were aware from the beginning that our goal was automatic promotion and it's true that today, we're very far away. We aren't going to give up as long as there are still chances and we're focused on making our goal a success. I know this division perfectly. What is far away now can change at any time.' 

 

The Murcia native acknowledged that they're not in the best situation, but expressed his complete confidence in achieving the feat: 'It's not easy; we're coming off a difficult season. We've seen both versions of the team. At first, they struggled to get going, but when they gained confidence... We've already seen what happened. We must think about the fact that there are 8 games left and everything is still to be decided. We must believe that we can do it until the end.' 

 

The goalkeeper has a special affection for the Club as this is his 8th season as a Rojiblanco: 'I feel like Almería is my home, and after last year, which was extremely tough, when things don't go well, it's quite difficult for everyone. A footballer must keep a cool head, try to control his emotions and focus on the sporting aspect.'

 

This season, the 34-year-old isn't getting much playing time between the sticks and is clear: 'From the bench, everything is magnified, it's more tense and you suffer much more. When you're on the pitch, you only have time to think about the game. It hasn't been easy, but I'm pretty sure the end of the season will be much better.' 

 

Finally, the skipper warned about next guests FC Cartagena: 'They're having a very hard time. We know what that's like after last campaign. These types of opponents are very tough. If you play well, you're usually going to win, but I expect a difficult match.'