Athletic to appeal Laporte red

Ernesto Valverde confirmed Athletic Bilbao would appeal Aymeric Laporte’s red card against Sporting Gijon in La Liga on Sunday.

Athletic won 2-0 at El Molinon thanks to goals from Benat Etxeberria and Oscar de Marcos, but their performance was marred by Laporte’s dismissal for two bookable offences, and Valverde made it clear he did not see anything wrong with either yellow.

“We dominated possession and Sporting sought the counterattack, so everything was set up to see who was more successful [in front of goal],” the Coach said after the game.

“After the red card, it was very important that the team didn’t let up because if we did, Sporting could’ve surprised us on the break. I’m pleased that we gave away very little.

“Benat, in particular, has been in great form, not just for the last few games but the entire season.

“[On Laporte’s dismissal], we’ll look to have the two cards overturned. He’s frustrated about what happened.

“[Aritz] Aduriz took a knock, so he’s a doubt for our next game.

“It’s very important to be well placed [in the table]. Now come the decisive moments of the season.

“Our objective is to play in Europe and, if it’s possible, aim higher.”

Tags Aymeric Laporte Ernesto Valverde
La Liga - Club News