MENDILIBAR: "RAYO ARE ALWAYS LOOKING STRAIGHT AT GOAL"

José Luis Mendilibar  spoke to the press at midday on Friday ahead of tomorrow's meeting with Rayo Vallecano at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán at 21:00 CEST. The manager began by providing an injury update: "Overall I think we're doing well fitness-wise, we might be the least injured team in the league with just Mariano and Lamela currently sidelined. The rest have all been in group training this week and this time we've had an extra day of recovery, which is helpful. We're well prepared for this game."

"It's vital that we win, putting us on ten points from the last 15 available. I think the last international break came at a good time for us, similarly to transfer window closing, as it gave us time to work on things and for everyone to take stock. I hope we can continue the form we've shown in the past month and that those who go away on international duty come back fit and ready to kick on. 22 players have started at least two games now and it's positive that we can balance the minutes throughout the squad," he continued. 

“It's really important to head into this international break with a win."

Mendilibar then spoke about the current situation the team finds itself in: "Sevilla are always expected to win matches, never to go out and lose. For us, it's really important to head into this international break with a win."

On the opponent, the manager said the following: "Rayo don't stop to assess their options, they play direct, looking straight at goal. Álvaro García, for example, is always looking for the back of the net." 

"Marcao and Nianzou are both in great condition"

Discussing team selection, he revealed that "everyone is available for selection, except Mariano and Lamela, who will miss out tomorrow. Marcao and Nianzou are both in great condition, so we will assess them once last time tomorrow."