Juan Merino sees Real Betis as ‘99% safe’ from relegation after a late win over Las Palmas.

Ricky Van Wolfswinkel scored the only goal to beat the 10-man islanders and move Betis to 41 points with four games to play, a 12 point cushion on the current bottom three.

“I think even without adding more points we’re safe. The team is in the Primera, our objective is 99% achieved. When objectives are achieved intensity can be lowered, but we’re already thinking about the derby,” he said, AS reports, with Sevilla to come this weekend.

“Almost every game played at their place are wins. Not only will it be hard at 100%, but we have to run more than they do. I’m sure it’ll be our best games. Derbies are finals.”

Merino was appointed to replace Pepe Mel on a deal to the end of the season and was asked about his status now the team are essentially safe from the drop.

“I don’t think about my future, only the derby. I’m grateful, happy to reach the objective and proud of my team. We have to live in the present,” he replied.

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