‘Third place was always Atleti’s aim’

Koke insists third place in La Liga, not the title, has always been Atletico Madrid’s aim after Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Sevilla.

Los Colchoneros’ failure to score against the Andalucians saw them lose their place atop the standings to Barcelona, who can move three points clear if they win their game in hand, but the midfielder made it clear the side were still on track to achieve their ultimate objective.

“We’re aiming to finish the season,” he said after the game.

“We’ve always said that. Now we must continue.

“We go to Barcelona next. W​e’ll give it everything and see what happens.

“The team had chances but just needed one to be taken.

“[Antoine] Griezmann hit the post, among other [chances], but this is football.

“We didn’t score, so we have to keep working hard.

“Now we must prepare for this cup match [against Celta Vigo], who made it difficult for us in the first leg.

“Still, we’ll play in our stadium, in front of our fans, and we hope to go through.”

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