“It’s a derby, we’re going all out for it”

Gaizka Garitano has appeared before the press at Lezama before their last training session ahead of the derby between Real Sociedad and Athletic Club, corresponding to the 23^rd matchweek in LaLiga Santander. After their win against FC Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, which has meant a “boost to reinforce our philosophy”, Athletic Club’s manager has emphasized the importance of tomorrow’s league fixture since the domestic competition is a “priority” for the side managed by the coach from Derio: “It’s a derby and we’re going all out for it. We’re playing every three days and that’s a good sign, that means we’re progressing past knockout stages in the Copa. We cannot complain or excuse ourselves. We’re going to try to win there.”

The red-and-white manager, after revealing Yuri will not be available to play due to an “adductor muscle contracture” and being queried about the possible changes in the team given the load of minutes some footballers have played, has shown himself confident and calm thanks to the different alternatives he has: “I trust all the players in the squad. No matter who plays I have complete faith in all of them. We have no problems with that.”

As for their opponents, Garitano has praised the good job Real Sociedad is doing this season. He also is aware of the difficulty of the contest for both the Lions and the Whites and Blues: “They have very good players. They are more than the sum of their parts; they work really well as a team. We must try to play a good game and impose our style. They’ll also find a difficult match. Both teams will seek to win and if we do it, we will be above them in the table on goal difference.”

Finally, and with the intention of promoting a friendly atmosphere tomorrow at Reale Arena, the coach has appealed for hospitality and respect among supporters of both clubs: “A maximum rivalry must be seen on the pitch and may the best one win, but the atmosphere has to be friendly, that’s what matters the most.”