Valverde: “This is an important match”

Athletic Club head coach Ernesto Valverde said the Lions must put April's Copa final to one side, reiterating that they must "focus on what's at hand" in LaLiga EA Sports.

The Zurigorri's most imminent challenge sees them face ninth-placed side UD Las Palmas at the Estadio Gran Canaria on Sunday afternoon (16:15 CET).

"We're mentally ready for what's to come in the next few weeks. We play three games before the final. Tomorrow's is the first and it's an important match," Valverde said at his pre-match press conference.

"From our position, the final is still far away. It's a responsibility because we've played a part in creating that excitement, but we must focus on what's at hand.

"The best way to prepare is to always be thinking about what's in front of you. We need to be competitive, maintain our level and try to fight to win every game.

"It's good that people are excited and that there is an optimistic atmosphere with regard to the final. The same as I imagine Mallorca must be right now. That's what we've earned. But then we'll have to play the match and nobody knows what will happen."

The gaffer is predicting a tough encounter against LaLiga suprise package UD Las Palmas, highlighting how well the Canary Islanders have adapted to García Pimienta's tactical system.

He said: "It will be a difficult game, just like the reverse fixture at San Mamés. It's a good test for us. Las Palmas try to dominate matches. They have internalised their coach's philosophy and they implement it very well.

"They're having a great season for a newly-promoted team. They've only lost three matches at home and all of them have been tight. 

It's true we haven't been getting good results on the road for a few league games now, but every match is an opportunity to change that trend."