Valverde: "It's good for people to get their hopes up"

"It's good that people are excited and happy, we play so that the fans come to San Mamés happy and eager to see a good game, but, above all, eager for us to beat our opponents. We want to take the points tomorrow."

Ernesto Valverde was blunt in the run-up to LaLiga Matchday 7 when Athletic Club will host UD Almería at San Mamés, in the return of the competition after the international commitments. 

With the Lions in a great dynamic, the red and white coach hopes to continue the good sensations shown so far. "The breaks are always good to train things to improve. With a previous victory, it's much better to face it so that the people around you are calm and happy. Now we have to start again.

"We have a month and a half left before the World Cup and we have important and tough opponents. Tomorrow is Almería's time, a complicated opponent with great players. We hope to play well and win."

With regard to the internationals, Valverde was satisfied with his Lions: "We are happy. They have achieved objectives and in that sense we should be congratulated. Many of the players we have are prepared and ready. The fact that there is competition in many of the positions is good for Athletic."