‘Atleti would settle for a point’

Everyone at Atletico Madrid would be happy to leave the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night with a point, says President Enrique Cerezo.

Atleti head into the Madrid derby eight points and one place ahead of Real Madrid and whilst the message from the players, ex-players and Coach has been to go for a first win in 13 years, Cerezo has eased the level of expectancy.

“We have a good team, a great Coach, but we know that it will be very difficult. The opposition are the reigning League champions,” reflected the director to AS today.

“It is true that Madrid are hurting, but all teams have ups and downs during the season. I repeat, they are the champions and that means something.

“I will make it clear, though, Atletico are going for the win. But, unless we lose, any outcome will be good.

“Are we settling for a point? I tell you that everyone at Atletico thinks the same, from the Coach to the last fan. Just as we are all after the win too.”

Cerezo also spoke of his continued good relationship with Madrid President Florentino Perez and again denied Falcao is thinking of anything other than scoring on Saturday, before choosing to speak about referees.

“The level of officiating in Spain is getting better. I have a theory and stick to it – I would like that no-one knew who the referees were.

“Here in our country, in our League, we know all about them, who they are, where they are from, where they go… And we are wrong. Because a referee is a person trying to do their job.

“But it is very difficult to be correct every time. And even you, as journalists, cannot agree on a single action in a game having watched it a thousand times…

“Let’s help the referees. And the best way is to forget them. Moreover, after a match, the result cannot be changed.”

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La Liga - Club News