‘Athletic still one of the big seven’

Getafe tactician Luis Garcia Plaza still considers Athletic Bilbao one of of La Liga's 'big seven' despite their troubles.

Garcia Plaza takes the Azulones to San Mames on Sunday to face a Bilbao side that are struggling both domestically and in Europe.

“We think they are one of the seven major clubs,” said the ex-Levante Coach at a pre-match press appointment. “So far they are below us and we hope after this game, that remains the same.

“San Mames is a beautiful venue,and Athletic are a team that plays openly for 90 minutes. Hopefully its that kind of game, with opportunities for both sides."

Garcia Plaza then turned to the issue of Athletic's form and exclusion of striker Fernando Llorente.

“They are a team that have many good players, even if Ander Herrera is suspended. They did great last year and they haven't changed that much.

“Llorente came on for 20 minutes against Lyon and caused danger. Even if Athletic have lost Javi Martinez, they have gained a lot with Aritz Aduriz. They might start with Aduriz, then bring on Llorente.”

Finally Garcia Plaza ran through Getafe's fitness issues.

“David Abraham is fine, and also Abdel Barrada. Paco Alcacer is a serious doubt as he has had gastroenteritis and hasn't trained. Up front we will continue investing in Adrian Colunga and Alvaro Vazquez.”

Tags Llorente Luis Garcia Plaza
La Liga - Club News