Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone believes it is vital his side get back on track against Real Valladolid.
Los Colchoneros have lost their last three games, beaten in both legs of the Copa del Rey by Real Madrid for a 5-0 aggregate score line and going down to a defeat in their last League outing to Almeria, a result which saw Atleti knocked off the top of the table.
Simeone’s team meet Valladolid on Saturday and El Cholo admits it is crucial Atletico return to form at the next possible opportunity.
“We lost an important tie, without a doubt, and a game in La Liga. It’s crucial for us to beat an opponent that will come here very motivated,” Simeone told his pre-match Press conference.
“We’re focused on Valladolid. We need to have a good game.
“In theory they’re a good opponent for us to face and get back to winning ways.
“But having lost to Almeria we know different things can happen. Nobody expected Valencia to win at Barcelona but they did.
“I’ve said that in the second half of the season, teams play differently. They’re less worried about how they play and think more of taking the points.”
Simeone agreed that his players are frustrated with recent results but doesn’t believe that is necessarily a negative.
“It’s normal after a team has been doing as well as we have.
“It helps us for this next game, gives us energy and strength. That’s what’s good about football – there’s always the chance for revenge.”