David Moyes refused to address Real Sociedad's injury crisis ahead of this evening's encounter with Athletic Bilbao. "Injuries aren't an excuse."
La Real will be without key quintet Mikel Gonzalez, Joseba Zaldua, Gorka Elustondo, Markel Bergara and Imanol Agirretxe for the Basque derby, but the Scot was not prepared to blame his side's lack of personnel in the event of a defeat.
"Although I know it's a derby, we're only thinking about winning. Injuries aren't an excuse, they're a part of football," the former Everton and Manchester United manager said at a Press conference.
"All teams suffer from them, and I'm sure we won't be affected by ours and that the fans will see a good show.
"Both teams need points. We played well for 60 minutes against Villarreal, but against Athletic we have to play well for 90.
"I want a Real who are both strong defensively and tactically and play like gladiators. I'm sure we'll succeed together.
"Athletic are a team with experience. It's difficult to play well in the League and the Champions League. It's also like that in the Premier League.
"It happened to La Real last year. I hope that in the coming years we can return [to the Champions League].
"Winning this game will be a big boost for us, and I want the team to give it their best shot. If we're strong, we'll approach the victory.
"These games are very important to the fans. I know many fans are traveling from one city to another, the atmosphere is very festive.
"The fans want the team to win, so it's important we give them an answer."