Simeone: Malaga very dangerous

Diego Simeone has warned Atletico Madrid that Malaga “are much more dangerous” than their results suggest ahead of Sunday’s trip to La Rosaleda.

Los Colchoneros can move three points clear of Barcelona at top of La Liga with victory over Javi Gracia’s men, who are level with 18th-placed Rayo Vallecano, but the Coach insists his side have their work cut out in Andalucia.

“We always think of the characteristics of our opponents’ players and theirs are good,” he said after the game.

“They’ve not had consistency in terms of results, but they’re not playing any worse than many teams who have been winning.

“A team who are encountering difficulties are much more dangerous, so it’s up to us to take the match where we want [it to be played].

“We’re always trying to improve. I can’t tell you what’ll happen because nothing’s happened yet.

“We’re just focusing on the game and taking it where we want. [The game] has our full attention.

“[On making his Atleti coaching debut against Malaga in 2011], we watched a flashback of the last few years at our Christmas dinner [on Friday].

“Our growth has been brilliant and huge, with great work from a lot of people involved in the club.

“It excites us all but also obstructs our focus. All the games we play depend on ourselves.

“When you’re in a positive run, it’s no good to stop and think. You have to play and you need to show [your quality].

“We won’t win just because we come from a winning run. You must force the issue.

“[On reported Chelsea interest], no comment out of respect for everyone.”

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