Rubi: 'We'll face the game against Valencia CF with high morale'

We'll face the fixture against Valencia CF with high morale,' assured UD Almería head coach Rubi at the pre-match press conference ahead of Monday's encounter at the Mestalla Stadium [Matchday 18]. He argued that his team is well prepared with a strong motivation after the last match against Atlético de Madrid. Nevertheless, he explained 'that doesn't mean there's no problem. We can't slack off; quite the opposite, we're looking forward to enjoying competing at the stadium of one of the best teams in the Spanish top tier.'

When asked if it was a pressure not to have won as guests, he answered 'we didn't feel pressure but rather a strong motivation because we want to try again. The match in Cádiz ended in a tie, where my team did things right, like they also did in Villarreal. It's a matter of time before the away victory comes out way. The important thing is to keep adding points.'

When speaking about the Valencian rivals, the Rojiblancos' gaffer explained 'I look up to national coaches, but I really like the way Gattuso is doing things. They play with high intensity. If you look at the stats, they're at the top of everything. They've done many things well. They're a squad of young players with a bright future ahead. Maybe, they might lack a few points to be higher in the table. Attacking rhythm is one of their strengths.'

The UD Almería head coach considered it key 'to be able to keep a clean sheet or get ahead because the standings would change. But if we concede soon, we'll be making it easy for them and that's what we have to avoid.'

The Vilassar de Mar native considered it vital to 'reach more than 20 points in these weeks. We have to try to get as many points as we can in these last two fixtures of the first half of the season because it'll make a difference.'