Osasuna boss Jose Luis Mendilibar is hoping controversy is kept to a minimum in tomorrow’s Copa del Rey clash with Valencia.

Cesar Muniz Fernandez, the referee originally designated to the game, has been removed due to his performance in the 2-2 draw between Sevilla and Espanyol on Friday, a decision commented on by Sevilla President Jose Maria del Nido earlier.

He has been replaced by Miguel Perez Lasa.

“I hope the referee lets us play, doesn’t obstruct anyone and doesn’t get into the hype or attract attention,” Mendilibar commented at his pre-match Press conference.

The match is a re-run of Saturday’s La Liga fixture, when Ernesto Valverde’s Valencia left El Sadar with a 1-0 victory.

“It can serve as a reference,” the tactician added. “We didn’t know how much they could raise their game, but we now have something to work with and talk about with the kids.

“I’ll try and keep everyone fresh. We did well in the last round and we’ll continue with the same dynamic.

“Valverde has done great things already. He is a just a regular guy, but sometimes we need sanity – players, fans and journalists.”
 

Tags Mendilibar Muniz Fernandez Valverde
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