Today’s training consisted of continuous running, stretching, rounds, physical exercises, goal shooting practice, defence-attack work and a practice match. Baptista, Toulalan and Buonanotte are still absent through injury, whilst reserve players, Pol, Jurado and Fabrice trained with the first team this morning.
Málaga CF returns to training tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. in the Ciudad de Málaga Athletics Stadium.
Statements by Santa Cruz
(Betis) "It’ll be a very special match for me, as I’ve got a lot of good friends there, and a great respect for the fans and the club. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again. From a sporting point of view, it’s a really important League match for us. We’ve had a great run of results so far this season, and are determined to gain three points from this match. Betis have got some fantastic players, play very good football and are used to winning matches. Saturday’s game will be very important for us, and really special for me, and I’d love to be able to score. I’m always talking about the great respect I have for the Club and the fans, but it’s all about scoring goals, and I really hope I can do that on Saturday.”
(Adapting) "I’ve found it really easy to fit in here, everyone has made me feel very welcome. We all have a great relationship, I really enjoy training and working hard for the team, and am getting to know everyone so much better now. I’m extremely pleased to be here.”
(Team’s performance) "The team is performing very well at the moment. We’ve achieved some brilliant results, and I’ll be ready for whenever the coach needs me. I’m happy with my fitness levels, as every player needs to be prepared to get on the pitch at any moment. As long as we keep winning, it doesn’t matter who plays.”
(Rapport with Saviola) "Saviola and I differ in height, but we both like to play with the ball. It’s not really about whether a player is bigger or taller, it’s about clever passing and speed on the pitch. Players get used to the style of game play, but it’s good for a team to have alternative styles, and be able to adapt to any circumstance.”
(Signing) "On leaving Betis, I was hoping I could return. It was a decision made between clubs, following the challenges with City, but the negotiations were conducted between themselves, I had nothing to do with it. This sort of thing happens in football, and I was really looking forward to playing in the Champions League. Now I’m here, really happy with my new team, and looking ahead to a great year in the League.”
