Real Oviedo Head Coach Cuco Ziganda appeared before the media who had gathered in the Press Room ahead of this weekend's fixture against Málaga.
As is the norm each week, the Coach began by analysing the condition of the squad going into the weekend's match. "They are more or less all ok. Luismi has now taken part in all of the training sessions. Our plan is for him to be in the matchday squad, although he is lacking match fitness. If we need his help then he might be able to give us a hand. Alejandro (Arribas) is fatigued, and given the circumstances we will evaluate it. We have time. Javi Mier got a knock in training and will be out for a couple of weeks."
Regarding the importance of getting three points against the Andalusians and adding a second consecutive victory, the Gaffer believes that "it's a very important match, because the Burgos one damaged us. The fans had a bitter taste in their mouths after it; they want us to win. We have to get the bad taste out of their mouths at home on Sunday and make them happy. We have to turn it around, we can't use bad luck as an excuse. Based on how we are feeling and our play it seems like we should have got more than we have so far, but the fact is that we haven't. We have a fantastic attitude in away games but we aren't winning at home. That's what this is about."
With respect to the possibility of changes going into Sunday's match, Ziganda admitted that "there will be rotation, because we have a lot of matches. At any moment there can be a spark which short circuits everything and allows us to move up the table." Furthermore, discussing what he expects from the next opponent, the Gaffer believes that "Málaga, just like ourselves, are one of those teams that would love to go up. They've signed very well, bringing in good players. They are taking the season with calm and progressing. Every match is different."
Asked about Pombo and what he needs to do in order to earn a starting place, Ziganda highlighted that "I can see him playing on the wing or up front. We've got absolutely nothing against him, we've just been opting for other players. Pombo has changed matches and we hope he continues in that fashion. Competition for places is a good thing, but there always has to be somebody getting left out." In addition, regarding the strike partnership of Borja Bastón and Obeng, Ziganda stated that "they are linking up well, it's not a battle. For now they are in good form and working well together. They have different characteristics and create uncertainty in opposition defences. We have to make the most of all of their strengths."
Finally, regarding his feelings on a personal level, the Coach declared that "I'm fine, although when certain things aren't working out then it's impossible to be completely happy. There are uncomfortable situations in which we have to prove ourselves. We are deviating very little from my ideals and from what I believe in. We have to get across the message of continuing on this path, with all of the good things we are doing."