Real Oviedo full back Juanjo Nieto today appeared in the Press Room at El Requexón.
Aside from the impact on league standings, how important was the victory against Las Palmas in order to gain that sense of having put in a complete performance?
- The Las Palmas match allows us to take confidence. We were in bad form, and the three points were important. We have to keep believing in what we are doing and in our work.
The team had suffered several bad results prior to the victory against Las Palmas. Were there doubts in the dressing room regarding the squad's ability?
- There were no doubts. We know the work that we had been doing. After the Las Palmas match, you can see that the team does things well, we are solid, and we compete well.
What was the key to seeing an Oviedo side which played consistently well throughout the whole match in Las Palmas?
- We make individual errors, but we compete well. That's what we have to keep doing.
Was the Las Palmas match the most complete one as a collective?
- Yes. We were focused from start to finish and that's what we have to keep working on. That's what kept us up last year, and it's what will have to help us grow this season.
The last few matches have seen individual errors and mistakes from set pieces. Has Ziganda spoken to the defenders to look for a solution?
- The Coach is a person who, on a personal and a group level, is close to us. We speak and try to improve all together.
Does the second victory of the season and the fact it came away from home give you a great deal more confidence for Sunday's match?
- Confidence was important. We knew that our form in training had to be reflected on the pitch. We have to keep going.
Sunday sees you come up against the team from your city, with whom you made your first-team debut in the Tercera División. How special is this match for you? What is your opinion on this Castellón side, which was in Tercera two years ago and is now a professional side?
- It's where I grew up, it's a special match. Castellón are a difficult team, they have been doing things well, and they have maintained their core. It is going to be a difficult game and we need points.
How have you been feeling personally at the start of this season?
- I'm feeling confident, and I have to keep working to get the best out of myself.
Now that the summer transfer window is over, has the club got in touch with you with regards to a contract extension?
- I am focused on the day-to-day work. They have had to adjust the budget this year and it's not the time to talk right now. We will find time to talk about the renewal.