Preview: Girona-Villarreal

In-form Girona will not only reach the 40-point mark with victory over Villarreal but close in on a Europa League berth.

Villarreal boss Javi Calleja on arresting his side’s slump: “Our mentality is not to leave this area of the table and go even higher.

“We’ve had good spells, now we’re on a bad run, but it’s nothing more than that.

“We mustn’t make a drama of this run. There are 36 points still to play for and everything still needs to be decided.

“We must recover our essence, touch and ability to keep the ball, as well as recovering our game.”

Girona boss Pablo Machin on his team changing objectives: ”We have to keep our feet on the ground, working day by day and picking up points each week.

“It’s the only way we can reach the end of the season with a chance of qualifying for Europe.

“It would be a bit hypocritical if I said that we’re finding [survival] very difficult to achieve because considering the sensations that the team are giving off, it seems we’re going to pass this subject before our final exams.”

Villarreal (probable): Asenjo; Mario, Alvaro, Victor Ruiz, Jaume; Castillejo, Trigueros, Rodri, Fornals; Bacca, Enes

Injuries/suspensions: Bruno, Andres Fernandez, Sansone (I) Ruben Semedo (S)

Girona (probable): Bono; Ramalho, Bernardo, Juanpe; Mafeo, Pons, Granell, Mojica; Borja Garcia, Stuani, Portu

Injuries/suspensions: Aday, Iraizoz (I)

Referee: Gonzalez Fuertes

Form guide: Villarreal – 6th (L W D L L) Girona – 8th (W L W L W)

Venue: La Ceramica

Kick-off time: 12:00 GMT/13:00 local time

La Liga - Club News