Valverde: “This match is crucial if we want to look up the table"

Ernesto Valverde is well aware of the importance of Saturday's match against Alavés in terms of Athletic Club's bid to climb up the LaLiga standings during the final stretch of the season.

We've entered the last month of the campaign and the Lions have five matches left to achieve their goals, with everything still left to play for.

“As well as being a derby with a lot on the line for both sides, there are only a few games left and you can really feel what’s at stake in every match," the gaffer said at his pre-match press conference.

"Tomorrow’s match is a crucial when it comes to the league table. Every game is a battle and we want to make the most of this opportunity.

"The season isn’t over yet and we need every player to be at their best. We have to win tomorrow and we need to pick up points. It’s all very tight and we want to move up the table.

"We have a huge responsibility because we don’t think the points we’ve got at the moment are enough to stop us looking down the table. Tomorrow’s match is crucial if we want to look up the table."

The Zurigorri coach will take charge of his 500th match as Athletic head coach Saturday.

It's "an important milestone" but one which Valverde stressed takes a back seat compared to what the Lions have riding on the fixture.

He continued: “I won’t deny that it's crossed my mind at some point. But at the moment I feel more of a sense of responsibility.

"Right now, I’m just focused on the importance of the match and the situation we’re in. The fact that it’s in Gasteiz makes it even more special – it’s close to my neighbourhood. We’ll see tomorrow if it’s a sign."

"As time goes by, I’ll appreciate the feat more."