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Martínez: “We must work hard for every point”
RCD Espanyol coach looks ahead to Sunday's clash
Diego Martínez spoke in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s match against Real Sociedad.
RCD Espanyol travel to northern Spain to take on Real Sociedad, as they look to continue their solid away form. Speaking to the media at the Ciutat Esportiva Dani Jarque, the coach looked ahead to the LaLiga clash and discussed recent performances.
Martínez said, “We have to reduce our rate of unforced errors and focus on how they have occurred. We cannot be on an emotional merry-go-round. We did a spectacular job in Bilbao [against Athletic Club], and a week later we were not good.”
Espanyol’s last visit to the Basque Country was in fact against Athletic, where they came away with an important 1-0 win. That has been complemented by some difficult matches, including last week’s home defeat to Sevilla.
Speaking about his side’s fortunes, Martínez said, “The errors have really cost us, but we also have to be more clinical with our chances. We deserve to have more points. That comes from hard work and the right mentality, that is the way to do it.
“From there, the confidence and growth of the team is fuelled by points. The victories will come, and many will come, but we are going to have to work really hard for every point.”
Opponents Real Sociedad are back at the Reale Arena for the second time this week after a midweek Europa League win. On Real, the coach commented, “They have players of a very good level, we have to remain very focused on the game plan.”
For the trip to San Sebastián, Espanyol will be without Óscar Gil, Rúben Sánchez and Gori. Martínez confirmed that Aleix Vidal will be part of the travelling squad, saying, “He didn’t leave in the transfer window, and he is one of the group. I don’t have a single complaint about his behaviour.”