Berenguer: “Derbies like this are always special”

Álex Berenguer said the Basque Derby against Real Sociedad is always a unique match for Los Leones, while also insisting the players have to maintain the same mindset as with every fixture.

Both teams will be looking to further their European ambitions at the Reale Arena on Saturday. Real Sociedad are third in LaLiga with 32 points, whereas Athletic Club are seventh with 26 points.

“All matches are important. Now we have to go to Donostia and it will be a special match because derbies always are," Berenguer said at a pre-match press conference on Thursday afternoon. "We have to go with the same attitude as always: try to get three points and move up the table."

With Athletic registering two draws in their return to LaLiga, the winger reiterated his confidence that Athletic will soon put together a run of positive results.

He said: "There are a lot of games left and we're going to stay in the fight. I think we're in good shape and just because we've drawn two games there's no need to lose our heads, far from it.

"The team is the same as before and as soon as you win two games you're at the top. I think we're doing well, but there are also areas where we can still do better. In the remaining matches we'll try to build upon the performances we've put in so far."

Álex warned that Real Sociedad have been doing well for years now", saying Los Leones will have to be at their best to come back to Bilbao with something in the bag.

"They're good in possession, very patient and in no rush to get up the pitch," he added. "Nevertheless, we have our strengths too and I think we can hurt them."