Herrera hopes for Athletic, Zaragoza

Ander Herrera is hopeful that weekend opponents Athletic Bilbao and Real Zaragoza can both avoid relegation this season.

A draw in Sunday’s meeting would be enough for Herrera’s Athletic to guarantee their League status for another season, but a win for hosts Zaragoza would still not see them safe.

For the Basque Country outfit’s midfielder, who developed through Zaragoza’s youth ranks before a 2011 transfer to San Mames, he is hopeful that both reach their season objectives.

“If we were to be saved this weekend then you could say it would be a tough match for me,” commented the 23-year-old to reporters this week.

“Obviously this is more than just another game for me. Everyone knows that if I want another team besides Athletic to be saved, then it is Zaragoza because they have given me so much through my life.

“But I owe Athletic and salvation for this team is above all else. 

“It’s a special game because it is against a team that gave me the chance to play in the Primera Division and also to move here. And it is special because Athletic could guarantee safety on Sunday.

“We will not wait any longer. We want to win and achieve safety. When a team is in need, it is noticeable, they have a lifeline.

“But even if we were not in need of the points, we owe it to Athletic to not relax.”

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