ALONSO: "FOOTBALL HAS BEEN UNFAIR IN TERMS OF RESULTS BUT IT'S TIME TO PRESS ON"

Diego Alonso, our first team head coach, appeared in front of the media at the official press conference ahead of tomorrow's match against RCD Mallorca. He began by stating that "the squad is in very good spirits. We have players coming back from injury, although there are some that are still ruled out for tomorrow's game. It's undeniable that it's a very important match, they are in a similar position to us in the league so it's crucial that we secure the three points."

"We've had some good performances since the international break, starting in the second half against Real Sociedad. In the cup as well we played well. We are improving, so hopefully this will translate into positive results very soon. We haven't managed the results so far, but now is the time to dig deep to ensure that victories come our way."

"It is always important to keep discipline at the highest standard"

Alonso added that "discipline is vital and its value must be recognised. We work extremely well as a group and everyone knows their role. The players are gutted they haven't yet been able to win in the league, but the commitment to put that right is there for all to see."

Going into more depth on Saturday's opponent: "It will be very tough. Javier Aguirre has a well-organised and well-drilled team that, like us, have not had the points that their performances have deserved. One win has the potential to catapult us and give us that boost, together with the Copa del Rey win, that everyone here deserves."

"We fight for the badge every game and I feel that responsibility as part of the club. Tomorrow we are playing for three points that we desperately need. We have to get the points for the fans, we owe it to them. You see it in every game, the support they give us every game us and we have to give back to them," he concluded.