Paco Jémez: "I want to see some players competing"

Paco Jémez has made it clear he doesn’t want his players to be thinking about the upcoming league clash against Eibar. "We are in no position to slip up in any competition. We need to get good vibes going. The Cup is a nice tournament to play in. I have told the players to think exclusively about tomorrow’s match against Valencia, and put Eibar to the back of their minds. It would be great news if we went through".

Jémez stressed "this is no time to be trying this and that, because we need to get out and compete, and win, that’s the important thing. I want to see players who haven’t played yet and take decisions from there. There will be changes, but everyone should be prepared to perform". "I want to change acquired customs, but this will take us some days’ work. It is part of the process of things being done the way I want them. There is certainly room for improvement in some areas", he underlined.

Alen Halilovic is one of the new faces back in the squad following his lengthy injury "and being out of action for three whole months". Jémez insisted that “we still have time to take a look. I want to see some players competing. The first two games are good tests. We enter a new period in which everyone starts on a level playing field. I have no particular favourites in the squad".

Paco Jémez announced the departure of Aythami Artiles. "I have spoken to him and we will sit down to sort out his leaving the club. He has all my support and affection, as he has been a great help since I have been here". He also confirmed the absences of Remy and Tannane who are ruled out "due to footballing reasons"