‘Facing Cordoba will be special’

Paco Jemez has admitted that Rayo Vallecano's encounter with Cordoba this afternoon will be a ‘special’ occasion for him.

Despite being born in Las Palmas, the 44-year-old grew up in Cordoba and enjoyed spells at Los Franjiverdes as both a player and Coach before leaving the club in 2012 to take charge of the Madrid-based outfit.

“It’s just another match, and it must be treated in this manner so we’re best equipped to secure the three points needed to keep us afloat, but it’s special for me because [Cordoba] have been and will be my club,” the Rayo boss revealed.

“It’s a match of equals because both teams are in the same area of the table. I wish [Miroslav Djukic] well at Cordoba. He has the chance to achieve something which can be built on for many years to come.

“The fans’ affection for my work at the club gives me great satisfaction because it’s a recognition of your work in your own land.

“Rayo have always believed in me and I think it’s enabled us to achieve many accomplishments, but we can’t relax.

“Joining a big club is the pinnacle [for a Coach], but it must be earned. Moreover, not all Coaches are good enough for certain clubs.

“Results sometimes determine opinions, but Cordoba are a team who have improved week on week. They outplayed Granada [last week].”

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