Real Oviedo youth product Edu Cortina stopped by the press room after the first team's return to training this morning.

After three weeks' worth of training with the first team, the Oviedo native seemed "very pleased", stating that "the technical staff and the players have taken us in wonderfully. Now we just need to work and continue down this path".

The center midfielder is one of the nine players from the affiliate team that are training during the preseason with the first team, and is one of the nine that has participated the most in the preparatory games. Concerning this fact, Edu Cortina understands that it is "the fruit of daily work, earning minutes and experience. Our teammates have rallied around us and that helps".

When asked about the work that Juan Antonio Anquela is carrying out and his way of understanding football, the Oviedo man ensured that "it's clear that he's spent many years in this position, he knows what he wants from each player. He helps us a lot and we are happy with him". Additionally, on a personal level, the center midfielder said that "with me he insists that we provide balance to the team, positioning myself so that we have two lines of recuperation. He asks me to be fluid in the game and to keep things simple".

Regarding the differences between working with the first team and the affiliate team, Edu Cortina indicated that "the difference is in the intensity, the professionalism in many aspects of the game. We are trying to adapt and pick up the rhythm. Those of us that have come up from below are picking up the intensity to reach the level required of the group".

When asked about the possibility of securing a spot in the first team this season, Edu Cortina said that "we have our hopes. The club says that it's going to have a small roster, the coach is giving us minutes...those are signs that they count on us. We have to work and give our all, because for as much as it is said, it's not worth anything if we don't do it".

Finally, regarding the arrival of Javi Rozada as Vetusta's coach, the center midfielder said that "the majority of the team knows him, we know how he is. We're all focused, pleased, and excited to face the season".