Simeone: We can’t afford to slip up

Diego Simeone has insisted that his Atletico Madrid side will demonstrate the same effort against Celta Vigo as they did in the derby.

The Rojiblancos drew 2-2 with Real Madrid last weekend, but go to Vigo this weekend hoping not to slip further behind the leaders at the top.

“I said afterwards that it was an important game – one which would demonstrate the essence of this team,” he told a Press conference.

“My side showed that they are competitive, now we have another important and difficult game against a good rival – a match which will require a huge effort.

“We can’t afford to slip up. We lost our last two away games. Against Almería it was for a series of different episodes, in Pamplona we were overpowered during the opening minutes of the game.

“Celta can play in a number of ways but they like to have possession of the ball. If we enter the game well, we will be in with a chance of winning and that’s what we have to do”.

The Argentine tactician then commented on his team’s current injury worries.

“We believe in the team and the players who are available. Some of our players didn’t get to play against Real Madrid.

“Diego and Villa will play tomorrow but it’s not just about those who will be coming into the side, all of my players know how important Saturday’s game is.

“I just hope that we can put in a good display and all of the players, whether they’re regulars or not, perform well as a team.”

Finally, Simeone remarked on Diego Costa’s debut for Spain in midweek, and his recent run-in with officials.

“Diego has ideal characteristics for any side. He’ll have more time to settle in when the national team begins their preparations for the World Cup.

“That he is training with the Spain squad makes him stronger and our team stronger too.

“I’m sure that I haven’t been behaving as they would expect, that’s something I need to work on and improve.”

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