Nuno Santo isn’t disheartened by calls for his sacking in Valencia’s last home game, defending the fans’ right to complain.
Valencia were held to a goalless draw by Real Betis and have taken six points from a possible 12 at the start of the League season, and began the Champions League group stage with a home defeat to Zenit St. Petersburg.
“Our fans, or part of them, have every right to express their views. I think it was just the performance,” he said prior to the game against Espanyol, AS reports.
“They want to be happy and it’s our challenge to make them happy. We need to take the criticism and improve our performance.
“Football and the dynamic of a match is every three days. We’re going to a difficult ground, where we’ve had a good time and a bad time.
“That’s forgotten. We’re focused on this game and our performance, to improve it. Our only objective is to have three points more.
“The League is very long. This is only the fifth round. We know we could have more points. That’s evident from what we’ve produced and our performances.
“We try to improve game by game. There are two challenges: to consolidate our strengths and improve our goal record. We need to improve our game to be even more effective.
“It’s evident and the numbers reflect that our play and time in the penalty area isn’t reflected by goals. That’s because there are other dynamics and we have to find other solutions.
“What’s important is to look for which players on the field best strengthen the team and make for the most profitable game.
“I’m convinced our quality will be reflected in goals. But we also need a solid defence and quick breaks.
“It’s not better to play away from home. We’re ready to compete in any stadium. We have to recognise what Mestalla has done for the team and pay it back. Valencia’s players always give everything they have.
“I consider myself a professional and an honest person in my work. I have the honour of being Valencia Coach and I come every day to improve. We do our part. It’s true I don’t smile much. I’m serious, but I’m very comfortable here.”
