Valverde: "We want to leave for the break on a high note"

Athletic Club head coach Ernest Valverde stressed the psychological importance of getting a good result before the break in play for the upcoming World Cup.

The Lions take on Real Valladolid in the final LaLiga match this year at San Mames (Tuesday, 20:00 CET), and after falling to defeat against Girona on Friday, the lads are keen redeem themselves and return to winning ways.

"It's a very important match because it's the last league fixture before the break and we want to leave on a high note," Valverde said at his pre-match press conference. "It will be difficult because Valladolid are doing well and have won three of their last four games while we've just lost in a bad way.

"After a defeat what you want is for it not to linger on, to close the wound as soon as possible. The first opportunity we have is tomorrow, along with the added pressure that afterwards there is an excessively long break for everyone."

Having won only once in their first six fixtures of the season, Valladolid are going through a massive upturn in form after the September international break, only being defeated twice in the seven matches since.

Valverde warned they are a side with "good skillful players" who "know what to do when they have the ball".

He added: "They're brave, always pushing forward, with good players in defence and midfield. At the moment, there a lot of strong teams in midtable with an identity, Valladolid are one of them."

Despite being sixth in the LaLiga Santander table, Los Leones have suffered a slight dip in form, winning just once in October. Valverde said it was important his side make sure they're in a good position for the final third of the competition.

"We're a third of the way through the championship and if you want to achieve your objectives, you have to be picking up points before the last third of the season arrives," he said.

"We have to keep improving. We had a good start, but looking at the last few away games, we know we have to play a bit better in all aspects.

"The last match left a bad taste in our mouths. There are three points between us and third place and the teams behind us are also close.

"Most teams in the league are playing at the same level. Everything is dependent upon being absolutely focused and playing with the desire to win at all times. That obligation is good for us."