Mauricio Pochettino has called on his Espanyol players to follow up last weekend’s first win of the season with three points in Week 9 against Malaga.
Rayo Vallecano were the first team this term to be defeated by the Catalan outfit and whilst the Coach refused to suggest it had been a must-win game for his side, he did urge that it be followed up for next weekend’s ‘difficult situation’.
“I had not had that feeling of a ‘must-win’, whilst we always work with the same intensity and enthusiasm,” he told reporters today.
“Each point is key for us, though. For Malaga, the wear of playing in the Champions League and against a strong opponent could take its toll, but until we start our game at the weekend, we will not know.”
Espanyol have received a number of red cards this season and when asked about that, Pochettino first thought back to pre-season and the preparation with a numerically disadvantaged squad perhaps now paying dividends.
“It is important to know what to do when the numbers are low, because it is not always the same when you are without a forward, defender or midfielder. The team structure varies.
“We never expected [the red cards]. There is some tough match officiating and it is difficult to remember a game where there has been no controversy.
“But, I want to do my best. Football is complicated and it is difficult to be just.”
The Coach was then asked of the impact a fit again Sergio Garcia has had at the club.
“He is a decisive player who will bring balance. People know the quality that he has and it is clear that after his injury he can still contribute much. Competition is important for improving our performances.”
