Real Oviedo Head Coach Cuco Ziganda today appeared in the Press Room at El Requexón ahead of Sunday's fixture against Real Valladolid.

With respect to the match at the José Zorrilla and the importance of picking up points to stay in touch with the playoffs, Ziganda believes that "there's a long way to go and no matter what happens we will continue taking it one step at a time. However, the reality is that we are three points away from them and if we win then we will catch up with a team that is in the playoff places. It will be a one-off result, and we know our objective and the squad Valladolid have, but as of today we are three points away from them. If we win it will be a double source of happiness."

The Gaffer will not have Dani Calvo available for the match due to the accumulation of yellow cards. "Arribas is going to play. We have complete confidence in him. We know his competitiveness and his willingness. He trains well, just like Christian. I believe in him and I know how capable he is of performing."

Ziganda ruled out Javi Mier, saying that "he's not training. He's still not able to train normally. We are going to have a think about his recovery."

Asked about the large number of travelling Oviedistas for the next encounter, the Coach declared himself "very happy. We are here to excite the fans. We have the privilege of bringing happiness to a fanbase which truly 'feels' its team. Them being excited gives us great motivation. I think that mutual connection is important. We represent our fanbase and we want them to feel proud of us."

Regarding the next opponent, Ziganda warned that "Valladolid attack a lot and well and gets extraordinary results. They get in behind and like to get forward. They are going to test us, but we have our own weapons. We know how difficult the opponent is, but we are going to test them."

With the weekend's line-up still unclear, and asked about the important role played by the academy graduates in starting elevens, Ziganda said that "it's crucial for the club, in order to preserve our identity and our values. Having homegrown players with values is a good thing. They are committed, available, and willing, and great references within the club. They are the type of players who don't make a lot of noise, but for the club it's a luxury to have them here. They give everything on the pitch, they suffer when they're not playing, and they enjoy the victories. It's a source of future for the club and is worthwhile. The clubs need an identity and values, and these players represent it. They really feel it and maintain that impulse in the delicate moments, and that's something that you can't put a price on. You have to value those people. They are humble and don't complain. I value them like any other player, and we are very lucky to have them."