Valverde: "It's a crucial period of the season"

Ernesto Valverde stressed Athletic are moving into a vital section of the campaign, urging his players to take advantage of the momentum from Wednesday's Champions League victory in Italy and put in a good performance against Sevilla FC on Saturday evening.

The clash at the Sánchez-Pizjuán will be the Lions' sixth consecutive away game in all competitions, with the matches coming thick and fast.

"We're under a lot of pressure, and when the results in LaLiga aren't good, that stress increases," Valverde said at his pre-match press conference.

"Nevertheless, the win the other day should help us overcome all that and play well tomorrow. During the season there are periods just as important as this one, but yes, it is a crucial period."

The Lions come into the match after a 2-3 victory over Atalanta in the Champions League and the gaffer hopes that win in Italy will serve as a boost for his team.

He said: "Victories always boost confidence, and if it's in the Champions League, even more so. It was a comeback, in a tough situation for us, it shows the team's competitive spirit."

As for Sevilla, Valverde warned that "they're a team in need of points, as we all are" and therefore he's expecting "a competitive side, as always, that will fight until the end".

He added: "All the teams bunched up together are playing for everything in the back of this season, which is becoming important for them and for us."

When asked whether it is necessary to take a step back from the excitement of the moment, the Rojiblanco manager was clear.

"Absolutely not. It is much better to be excited than to be upset about losing. We're focused on this match because of its importance. The Champions League is exciting, as is the Copa, but LaLiga is our obligation and we're not doing well."