Atletico Madrid midfielder Raul Garcia has rejected the suggestion that he and his teammates are starting to tire.
Diego Simeone’s side are neck-and-neck with Barcelona at the top of La Liga and it was put to Garcia at a Press conference that Atletico’s two draws in their last two games are a result of fatigue.
But Garcia doesn’t believe that’s the case, insisting that Atleti can dig deep enough to fight off any tiredness.
“If you stop and think about the month so far, no team has been better than us physically,” Garcia said.
“But with the season we are having when we draw at home, people start to talk. Let’s not talk about it.”
Garcia did concede that the second half of the season could be tougher than the first because Atletico’s opponents know more about them now.
“Everyone’s trying to get something in the second rounds.
“Teams try to close out the game and leave with a point.
“But it has nothing to do with the physical side. There are other reasons for it.”
Garcia added that the level demanded by Simeone is not a hindrance but rather a motivating factor.
“For it helps to know he trusts me to deliver.
“I wouldn’t say I like to be considered as an example for the team, but I do appreciate it.”
Garcia also revealed that he expects to extend his contract at Vicente Calderon, although confirmed talks have not yet started.
“All parties are interested in renewing.
“Circumstances have meant we haven’t talked yet but we will, if not now then soon.”
Garcia was speaking ahead of Atletico’s Copa del Rey quarter-final with Athletic Bilbao, opposition he expects to prove especially challenging.
“It’s a difficult tie. They play good football and can mix it up.
“But we are confident we can win. We want it so much.”
