Victor Fernandez is expecting a proper relegation scrap when Deportivo La Coruna face Levante in La Liga later this evening.
The two sides head into the encounter at Ciudad de Valencia hovering dangerously over the relegation zone, with the Galicians sitting just one place and point above Lucas Alcaraz’s troops in 16th position.
“Levante rely heavily on their opponents’ mistakes,” the Coach told reporters at a Press conference.
“They’re very a competitive team, with experienced players, intense in the battle, a dangerous strategy, but also very influenced by the pressure.
“Like everyone else, their position in the table may make them nervous, and they have a great responsibility to win at home.
“I expect a very physical, intense and highly-contested match. My players must be prepared for it. Besides, no-one wants to play for a point against their rivals, so that increases the tension.
“We have improved a lot [in regards to intensity]. Our training has become a lot better and we’re doing well to survive through the injuries we have.
“The more recovery time, the better because there are always bumps, but I could also complain because we had less than 72 hours to recuperate between the Cup match against Malaga and Villarreal in the League [in December].
“I’d like us have more points, but the current team don’t resemble the team from the start of the season in any shape or form. We had it harder than anyone else in the summer.
“The growth is noticeable. We’ve endured too many difficulties this season, and in other circumstances we could've been better, but I'm never satisfied, that's why I am so.”
Fernandez then lavished praise on new boy Oriol Riera, who recently completed a transfer to Depor from Wigan Athletic.
“He has been very good since arriving here. Physically, he is in very good condition, he’s very agile and competitive,” he added.
“He’s had four really good training sessions with us, and now he’s ready to play. He’s a player I like.
“He’s a very good footballer outside the box, tracks back, adds continuity and movement into attacks, is two footed and powerful in the air. I think he’ll offer us enough qualities.
“Also, I think we’ve signed a very good person on a human level. It’s important that the dressing room is free of any bad eggs.”
