Ivan Sanchez ‘Riki’ has revealed that his bright start to Deportivo’s season is likely down to his appreciation of Coach Jose Luis Oltra’s approach.
From the Galicians’ first three games back in the top flight this year, the veteran has already netted twice, scoring in the homes games against Osasuna and Getafe.
His return already represents 50 per cent of the total number of goals he managed in the entirety of last season and just one fewer than in his last full season in La Liga.
“Each has his methods, his philosophy of play,” reflected the forward today in trying to explain his better ratio so far.
“In the past, other technicians have practiced a different style of football, with Oltra we have been identified as playing with extra possession, from start to finish we try to play and this is appreciated.
“I feel I identify more with this Coach than with others, but I also do not want to take advantage of that because I am not like that.
“Our style of football has remained the same from La Segunda, but the opponents are different. Some teams are better and others are at your level. In La Segunda we were the team to beat, in La Primera we aspire for survival.”
Riki declared that he was unconcerned about reports that the club still need to sign another forward after losing Lassad Nouioui and despite signing Nelson Oliveira on loan.
“I’ve been here for seven years and for seven years the club has been looking for a striker, but I don’t mind. Whoever comes in, let him try and score.
”If the club decides that a striker will come then it is because we need one.
“I’m better at 32 than when I was 26. Every year I work well and the ambition is always the same.”
