Valverde: “It will be a good test of our form”

Athletic Club head coach Ernesto Valverde wants to see the Lions keep their good run going with a confident display against Granada CF on Sunday (16:15 CET).

The Zurigorri haven't suffered defeat in LaLiga since a loss to FC Barcelona in October, having picked up three wins and two draws in their last five fixtures.

"The team is well balanced. We're happy with how things are going. We're confident, but every game is a test of our form," Valverde said in his pre-match press conference.

"Tomorrow we have a new test to pass. Thinking we've won something already would be wrong. We have to show that we're still in good form.

"Every game is important, because there are always three points at stake and you can move up the table. We all want to get points, to maintain our good form, but we'll be up against a team is desperate for points. That makes them dangerous."

The gaffer reiterated that Granada's position in the standings does not reflect the talent within their squad, saying "they have enough ability to be better off in the table".

He added: "They will have the fans on their side and give their all. We rate Granada and their players very highly. Of the points they have, most of them have come at home. They'll make things very difficult for us.

"Granada's aim is to be a bit firmer from a defensive point of view. They've always played well and have the ability to get close to the opponent's box.

"They have players with the quality and pace to trouble defender. We will have to be very attentive and careful to minimise their strengths in the game."