Valverde: “A vital win for our confidence and to galvanise people”

Ernesto Valverde couldn't have been happier with Athletic Club's 3-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano, stressing the importance of getting back to winning ways after three consecutive 0-0 draws.

The gaffer is hopeful Sunday's performance will provide the Lions, and San Mames, with an important boost ahead of Thursday Europa League clash with Rangers FC.

“This match was vital. For our confidence and to galvanise people," Valverde said. "It will be a difficult challenge [on Thursday], but we're very excited.

"Together we can do it. Today we came from behind with some great goals. On Thursday a team has to win the game to go through and we hope it will be us."

Athletic had to fightback from being a goal down at half-time, with an Oihan Sancet brace and a Nico Williams strike leading the Lions to a crucial win.

He said: "In the first half the game wasn't going our way and we had to step it up a gear.

"We took risks and pressed a bit more, and it worked out well. We got the winning goals and three very important points."

The three points could prove vital to Athletic's European ambitions, with the Zurigorri now six points ahead of Villarreal and nine points in front of Real Betis in the race for Champions League qualification.

Valverde added: "Every time you pick up three points, it means a lot, because there is little time left and you hurt your opponents' chances. In that sense, today's match was very important.

"We're coming of the back of a draw, and being able to win today was fundamental in terms of being in Europe next year.

"LaLiga seasons are long, we're still in the Europa League and the players are paying for their efforts. We still have games left to achieve our objectives, but first we have to focus on Thursday's match."