Julen Lopetegui appeared before the press this Saturday afternoon just before the team departed for Granada: 'This is how it is when you have a mid-week game. You have three or four days to assess the whole squad. Some players have problems and we will put our the best XI we can tomorrow for a difficult and demanding game.'
Lopetegui isn't looking at Granada's place in the league: 'I'm expecting a strong Granada tomorrow. If you look at their games, they could have won or at least drawn in almost all of them and they've let a lot of points get away from them. They were better than Celta the other day - they play well and have good players. A year ago they were in the Europa League and they adapt to different styles of play. With crowds back to 100% they will have their full support behind them and the atmosphere will be perfect for them. They are a good team in a tough situation and we have to be ready to fight.'
Lopetegui continued speaking about the fans: 'It was at 80% and now 100%. We're delighted the fans are back and the teams will feed off their energy. We will be ready to compete in a tough stadium with a hostile atmosphere. We have to come into it in good shape - every game in La Liga is a battle and this one will be very difficult. The Champions League is in the past - we've spoken about it and now the most important competition is the league. We're 100% focussed on that.'
'The Champions League is in the past. We are 100% focussed on La Liga'
Granada are still without a league win this season: 'Last year we lost there, we were well beaten. We know what they can do and I've went over how they could've won some matches this year. In many games they had the chance to win. We will give them the respect they deserve.' Julen was then asked about Sevilla who, in contrast, are unbeaten: 'We've always said that what's come before means nothing. Looking back on things doesn't help you to face what's in front of you. It'll be a great game - a local derby in a wonderful stadium. They are a good side but we know what we can do as well.'
'It's no surprise that in La Liga the little details make the big difference. Bar one, they had the chance to win in every match. They are strong tactically.' To finish up, he spoke about Delaney and Acuña: 'We will work it out with the squad we have. We have to be ready and when there are injuries or suspensions we have options. That's normal in football. The most important player is the one out on the pitch.'
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