UD Almería shaping up for Friday's fixture against Deportivo Alavés

The UD Almería players continue shaping up for the match against Deportivo Alavés that takes place at 9pm local time on Friday at the Power Horse Stadium (Matchday 22/ LaLiga EA Sports). This Wednesday, the players were put through their paces on the Anexo training pitch. Gaizka Garitano, as it happened in last Tuesday's session, has worked on tactics and recreation of match situations in order to face opponents who will go into the game in fine form as demonstrated by the fact that they have collected 7 points in the last four games. They tied in San Sebastián against Real Sociedad and beat Sevilla FC away from home and Cádiz CF at the Mendizorroza Stadium, results that have allowed them to move 8 points away from the drop zone. 

The Rojiblancos aim to be as competitive as they have been in recent matches as a result of the great performances they have put in. They made it really difficult for the top two table-toppers. First, they did not manage to defeat Girona FC because of the lack of pinpoint precision when pulling the trigger after creating numerous chances. Secondly, losing to Real Madrid CF unfairly at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium last Sunday. So much so that the referee's decisions clearly hurt UD Almería, denying them a much-needed victory that would have been a great turning point in their season. The refereeing scandal broke on the pages of many national sport papers the next day. Now, forgetting everything that happened will be fundamental, as well as counting on the wholehearted support of the UD Almería fans, to try to overcome Deportivo Alavés. 

Léo Baptistão is available for selection again after serving a one-game suspension, although Ramazani will sit out the next game after earning his fifth yellow card. César Montes has begun do part of the training session with the group, yet he remains a doubt. On a good note, the arrival of the Rojiblancos who have been away on international duty in the African Cup of Nations is expected, although it will be necessary to check the match fitness of Baba, Mendes and Marciano. 

The last behind-closed-doors footie practice is taking place on Thursday evening at the Power Horse Stadium.