Rubi: 'We need to turn our Stadium into a cauldron for the remaining games'

UD Almería head coach Joan Francesc Ferrer Sicilia 'Rubi' has urged the fans to get behind the team in this final stretch of the season, as promotion to the top flight is on the line. He emphasised: 'Now is the time to back the team more than ever. We'll miss passes, make mistakes and the opponents will create goal chances… but that happens to everyone. We need our fan, it’s essential.'

When asked about the atmosphere during the last home game, which saw many fans leave early despite a big win, Rubi highlighted: 'Those who stay help us a lot and they need to know that. In these final 5 home fixtures, our Stadium has to turn into a cauldron, especially since we already have the handicap of the athletics track.'

On the team’s condition, the gaffer noted: 'The players are knackered. We trained on Friday after returning from Castellón and I truly hope they made the most of that session and Saturday morning because the mindset has to be right.'

Regarding the Rojiblancos' performance fluctuations, the Vilassar de Mar native explained: 'This league is really tough and it’s hard to stay consistent. Last week we were second, 1 point adrift from the table-toppers and now we sit third 1 point from automatic promotion. We’ll see where we stand on Sunday, but as I said, things will keep changing due to the league’s competitiveness. That’s why we focus on ourselves and the next match, trying to earn as many points as possible.'

Looking ahead to the CD Leganés encounter, the Catalan added: 'We want to make up for the defeat in Castellón and to do that, we must put in a better performance. It won’t be easy. CD Leganés have gone 3 games unbeaten, drew in Málaga and have a strong squad. They recently played in the top-tier LaLiga with experienced and talented players, so they’ll make it very difficult for us. Although their position in the table isn’t what was expected, many relegated teams face this. CD Leganés are well-prepared and organised.'