Preview: Espanyol-Valencia

With neither side having anything to play for, Espanyol host Valencia in a dead rubber on Saturday to get La Liga’s penultimate round under way.

Espanyol boss Quique Sanchez Flores on the side’s last home game of the season: “We want to give the best farewell possible.

“We must thank the fans for how they’ve shielded us throughout the campaign and understood our project.

“We want to [return the favour] in the best way possible, with joy, enthusiasm and the intention of always winning.”

Valencia interim Voro Gonzalez on Marcelino’s appointment: “We’ve hit the nail completely because besides Marcelino having a lot of experience, his teams play in a way that goes very much in hand with our philosophy.

“In times like this and after two difficult years, it’s a very successful appointment.

“He’s shown himself to be a professional. It’s a coup for us and I wish him the best of luck.”

Espanyol (probable): Diego Lopez; Marc Navarro, David Lopez, Diego Reyes, Aaron; Baptistao, Victor Sanchez, Fuego, Jurado; Gerard, Caicedo

Injuries/suspensions: Diop, Javi Lopez, Oscar Duarte, Jose Antonio Reyes, Roberto, Salva (I)

Valencia (probable): Jaume; Montoya, Garay, Mangala, Gaya; Soler, Enzo, Pareja; Rodrigo, Zaza, Nani

Injuries/suspensions: Abenndour, Diego Alves (I)

Referee: Ocon Arraiz

Form guide: Espanyol (W L D L W) Valencia (W L L L D)

Previous meeting: Valencia 2-1 Espanyol

Kick-off time: 15:00 BST/16:00 local time

La Liga - Club News