Bernd Schuster talks about the team’s recent performance and tomorrow’s visit to Granada: “We need to focus on each match at a time, regardless of the rival. Each game presents its difficulties and is another battle. We’re not the only ones who’ve been suffering in recent games, nor the only team who clinches victory at the last minute. It’s important that we make the most out of our last matches, as tomorrow’s game will be much the same, and we can’t let our guard down. Granada are a quality side that gives their all on the pitch. They’re pacey, intent on dominating possession and changing the rhythm of play. However when you pile the pressure on them, it’s possible to do some damage. Granada are a compact, tight team with a clear style of game play, but I’m confident in our boys.”
With regards to the Copa del Rey, the Málaga CF coach prefers to stay focused on the derby for the time being: “I’m not worried about the Copa del Rey right now. We’re concentrating on Granada and coming home with three points tomorrow night.”
With both Santa Cruz and El Hamdaoui injured, the ‘Malaguista’ coach is relying on a new formation upfront: “Santa Cruz needs a couple more days to return to full fitness, and El Hamdaoui’s recovery time for his knee injury is normal. I’m confident in Samu and Juanmi for the Granada match, they’ve both been training well and are waiting for a chance to play. One or the other will get to play tomorrow, as I don’t think Samu and Juanmi could play together.”
Regarding the team, Schuster is still adjusting: “We still haven’t found the perfect starting-11. There are still positions on the pitch to cover. It’s important that there’s a degree of competition between the players. Eliseu is a key member of the team; his definition, ball control, shots, passes…but I think perhaps another position would be better. As it stands now, the team feels comfortable with the current formation. Pawlowski? It’s a problem playing him one day and not the next. We’ll have to see what happens. There’s no problem with Camacho or the position he plays. He made the most out of playing a lot last season as another player was injured.”
Finally, Bernd Schuster congratulates Sergi Darder, who has been selected for Spain’s under-21’s: “It’s a great reward, which he’s worked hard for. He’s taken advantage of every opportunity he’s been given since pre-season training, and now he’s been in the starting-11. I’m thrilled for him and hope he supports the team well tomorrow.”
