Diego Simeone has welcomed Atletico Madrid’s ability to decide their own fate in the League, adding that they depend only on their effort.
Barcelona’s defeat to Granada on Saturday means Atleti can put four points between themselves and the current champions with a win at Getafe, and move three points clear of Real Madrid, who beat Almeria.
Marca reports that at Simeone’s pre-match Press conference, he stressed the importance of keeping on the patch Atletico have been on all season.
“There are a few games to go to finish the League, but then, when the League started, we lived game by game and now more than ever,” El Cholo said.
“We should be enjoying what is happening. There are four Spanish teams in the semi-finals of the Europa League and the Champions League and we’re trying to be top of the League.
“That fills us with pride and we’re motivated and empowered. But we need to isolate all the nice words and in the morning we’ll have to get our shorts on, roll them up and start running again.
“We are competing very well in the League. The League is moving forward and the team is in a nice position.
“But to maintain the same options we have today we have to play a great game [against Getafe]. We depend entirely on game by game.
“There are fewer games for us and for our rivals but it depends on how we respond as a team.
“The most important thing, as I’ve been saying, is how we are, because we don’t depend on anyone.
“We depend on effort and on hard work that we can do [against Getafe], so I hope and wish that we can be a competitive team, knowing the significance of the game.”
Simeone added that with Getafe’s perilous situation – in the relegation zone prior to kick-off – it promises to be a difficult encounter.
“The game is complicated by Getafe’s needs and that’s certainly motivation,” he continued.
“It’s going to be a very competitive match. We’re focused on only the game and hopefully we’ll respond in the best way.”
