With the absence of international players, Santa Cruz, Kameni, Monreal and Isco, as well as Baptista, Seba and Toulalan, who are all recovering from injury, Atlético Malagueño’s Pol, Toni, Samu, Jurado, Castillejo, Diego, Marc and Sergi Darder were present in Manuel Pellegrini’s session this morning.  Training consisted of continuous running, stretching, rounds, various physical exercises, defence-attack work and a practice match.
 
The team returns to training tomorrow at 10:30 at La Rosaleda.
 
Statements by Sergio Sánchez

(League break) “We’ve had a good run of results recently, but we need to keep working hard and performing well.  This break will really help us to recharge our batteries, and help improve on the work we’ve already done.  I hope that the team performs even better in the forthcoming matches.”

(Signings) “Roque hasn’t been in a training session with us yet, but the others are doing really well and have adapted brilliantly to the team.  Fitting in here is so easy though, and their careers speak for themselves.  They’re all really eager to start playing.”
 
(Winger and midfielder) “The coach has been placing me in midfield and on the wing, which are two positions that I’m comfortable with, as is he, which is great.  I showed last year that I can be part of the starting 11 from a physical aspect, though I’ve still got quite a way to go.  However I’m giving it 100 per cent, and as soon as the League re-starts and the Champions League gets underway, we’ll see what happens.”
 
(Excitement surrounding the ‘Euroabonos’) "It’s amazing to see the support the team has throughout the city.  Their support really helps us on the pitch, puts pressure on the rival, and helps us to achieve our objectives week after week.  It really is wonderful for a player to see the stadium full of passion and support from the fans in every match.”