Real Oviedo left back, Christian Fernández, appeared in the Press Room following the first training session of the week at El Requexón.
After a good start to the season, both in terms of the sensations given and the results, the defender said that, “at the end of the day, as the Coach has said, we are going through a period of growth. We are competing and understanding our game. The positive sensations are coming through and growing. We are very happy with the team that is coming together.”
Asked about the obvious connection that is being created between the team and the fans week after week, Christian Fernández believes that “this group has something that the fans here prioritise; effort, bravery, and spirit. That is the club’s motto, and the Coach makes us aware of it every day. We have to represent our club, and reflect this from day-to-day, particularly on matchdays. Intensity is the hallmark of this team.” Furthermore, with regard to the role of Anquela in the search for intensity, the Real Oviedo full back stated that “there is no negotiating with the Coach. If you don’t compete, then you aren’t in the starting eleven. We must do this in all 42 matches. If he has to put somebody in who hasn’t been a regular then he will do it. The intensity instilled in us by the Coach during the week forms our mentality every weekend.”
Regarding the next opponent, Albacete, and whether their start to the season could be a double-edged sword going into Sunday’s match, Christian Fernández argued that “we are in the Segunda División. A short while ago they were unbeatable, and now people talk about a crisis. We must take each game as it comes, respecting our opponents. Albacete have good players. They haven’t started the season as they expected, but if we don’t approach it in the same way as other matches then we will regret it.”
In addition, when asked about the importance of picking up a first away victory of the season and what it would mean for the group, the left back said that, “I don’t think we will repeat our away performances from last season this year due to the desire that we have. Picking up points away from home is important in this league, but if we want to fight for greater prizes then we must put together consecutive wins. It is essential in order to achieve our objectives.”
Finally, regarding his expectations for the rest of the season and which teams he feels are favourites for promotion, Christian Fernández declared that, “I don’t see any standout team this season. I hope that it is us; it’s a very even league. The teams going up automatically won’t need a huge amount of points. Anquela tells us to take each game as it comes. There is a long way to go, and we must get better. At times, we give away chances that could cost us points. There are creases to be ironed out so that we can fight until the end,” he concluded.
