Mercado alongside Kjaer and Antonio Álvarez
First team

MERCADO: 'WE CAN'T LET DEFEATS TAKE US OFF TRACK'

07/02/2019
The Argentine said, after the visit to Hospital Macarena, that 'you come out of here feeling comforted for putting a smile on the kids' faces'

Gabriel Mercado attended the club's media this Thursday after visiting the children's ward in the Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena: 'When you come here you leave feeling comforted for putting a smile on the kids' face and also the parents' who are fighting for their kids,' stated the Argentine. He then went on to speak about the team, with the two recent defeats in mind: 'It's a part of the season. We knew that this could happen sometime and they were two really tough defeats but we won't let that knock us off track. We know we have to make amends on Sunday to keep us up high in the league.'

The team began the week with two days off, something that was much needed: 'Rest is always important after so many games. For those who have played many minutes, it helps them physically and mentally and we still have time to prepare for Sunday's game.' Furthermore, he spoke about the criticisms received after the two results: 'It's normal that people say things when results aren't good and that when they are everything's ok. We have to keep working, that's what will improve things. The manager knows that and that's the message he always gives. That's the path we're on.

Mercado explained the team's delight at getting the injured players back: 'It's really big. I don't want to make excuses, but the boss was having to be flexible with the lineup due to all the injuries. Thankfully most of them are recovering well and it's great to see them back out on the pitch.' Now it's time to get back on track against Eibar by winning the three points: 'After a defeat it's always important to get back to winning ways. Teams are gaining on us and we need to win. There's no doubt the fans will support us and we will try to keep up our run at home.'

'Teams are gaining on us and we need to win'

He also talked about the Europa League game next Thursday: 'We know how important it is for this club. We have earned respect in this competition and we have to give it our all to do well in it. We have to do a good job on Sunday and be ready for Thursday.'