Valencia captain Dani Parejo reveals the squad are pleased Gary Neville has restored Alvaro Negredo to the group after replacing Nuno Santo.
Neville was appointed Nuno’s successor last week and takes charge of his first game against Lyon in a must-win Champions League fixture, the Englishman confirming he would consider Negredo, who was frozen out under Nuno.
“Negredo is happy, very happy. He’s been through hard, bad times. It’s that to return to the group is for a player a welcome feeling,” Parejo said, Marca reports.
“He’s an important player for us and we are very happy because he can provide a lot to the group.”
Parejo was asked about his initial impressions of Neville as a trainer and said that though they’ve not been able to work together too much, there are good signs.
“Every Coach sees the world in a different way and wants to show their understanding of the game,” the midfielder noted.
“Two days isn’t a long time and there’s not been much time to work on the field to get the concepts into the players’ minds, but we can get it through videos and meetings.
“I’d be very comfortable playing in front of the defence again. I had a stage with [Ernesto Valverde] where I played there and felt good.
“In the end you have to adapt to all circumstances. If the Coach thinks I can do something that benefits the team, it’s what we’re all looking for. It’s an important position.”
The skipper also gave his take on the row between Aymen Abdennour and Luis Suarez after the former took to social media to accuse the later of hurting him during the 1-1 draw between Valencia and Barcelona.
“I’ve seen the replays of the game. Incidents like that are always going to happen because that’s football.” Parejo contended.
“I wouldn’t have [put the picture on the internet] but that’s Abdennour’s way. I’m not supporting aggression, but rivalries make football exciting.”
