Lopy: 'We must play every match as if it were the last of our lives'

'We must play every match as if it were the last of our lives' said UD Almería midfielder Dion Lopy in an interview with the Club’s official radio station. The Senegal international stressed: 'The 6 remaining games are finals and we must go all out to win them and achieve our goal of promotion to the top flight.'

Lopy is available again after serving a suspension following his red card in Santander, although he still has 9 yellow cards and is one booking away from another ban. He addressed the situation clearly: 'I’m not a tough or violent player, but people seem to label me that way because of my physique and intensity. I play fair and never try to hurt opponents, although some exaggerate contact to get me booked.'

This Sunday, UD Almería travel to face Granada CF in what promises to be a difficult derby clash. 'It’s going to be very tough. It’s a derby, and they’ll want to beat us, especially after losing away and now playing in front of their home fans,' he explained.

The midfielder also underlined the crucial role of supporters. Around 1,000 UD Almería travelling fans are expected at the Nuevo Los Cármenes stadium and Lopy made their importance clear: 'We’ll need them, just like in every other match. We players must give everything on the pitch and they must do the same in the stands. We must stay united.'

Lopy is known as one of the most expressive players when celebrating with fans. 'That’s just who I am. I do it for them. It’s my way of thanking them for their support,' he laughed.

The Senegalese midfielder also described himself as 'a calm player who likes to play with composure. I’ve always been like that. Physically, I’ve improved a lot because it’s essential. I need to be strong to win the ball back and contribute as much as possible to the team. I work hard on that.'

Finally, Lopy made his feelings clear about life at the Club: 'I’m happy in Almería; it feels like my city and I’d love to stay here for a long time.'