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González calls for "big team mentality"

The coach sets out his stall for the playoff semifinals

Manolo González has his side ready for the promotion playoffs, and he spoke ahead of Sunday's game against Sporting Gijon to preview the contest.

“We have focused on having the ball and control of the game. We have to have character and go out to play the game in the way that is required.”

For the coach, the streak of results in recent weeks “has enormous merit."

"The players have believed and have done many things well. We now have to push on with personality and have clear ideas. We have to go for the game. We can't speculate for 90 minutes. We have to show that the team are doing well, that we are RCD Espanyol and no one has beaten us in a long time. We have to reinforce what we have done well. I don't think the game will be decided at El Molinón, but we have to believe in ourselves."

González stated that he understands the pressure that is generated around the team, with so much at stake.

“That's logical. We know the history the club have and where we should be. The responsibility we have is great and we must have a 'big team mentality.' We have taken a leap forward and we hope that this is how the game will turn out.”

The aim for the meeting with Sporting Gijon is also clear, with the coach saying "I always go out to win. It is time to believe that we have the ability to win, albeit aware that we are playing against a great team. I believe in my team, in responsibility and in hard work. Going up to the Primera División with Espanyol would be one of the best days of my life.”