Real Oviedo Head Coach Cuco Ziganda today appeared in the Press Room at the NMR Carlos Tartiere ahead of the match against Cartagena, responding to the questions put to him by members of the media.
How does the team go into the first match? Do you believe that the characteristics which enabled the team to survive last season will be apparent from the off?
- The team goes into it in good shape. It was a shame about Rodri and he's going to be out for a couple of months. Everything has been done with attitude and desire, and we have seen the hunger and ambition of the lads. We have made the most of the time and now the reality is here. We will see if we are capable of carrying our work onto the pitch, but we are confident. We are going into Sunday with the aim of putting in a goodperformance.
Is not having lost in preseason a good sign?
- Whenever you play a match you want to do well. We have played against good teams, of a high standard, and we have done excellently in all areas. The squad has to feel solid and has shown that it is a difficult team to beat. Now the nerves and tension begin, and we have to start showing where we want to get to.
Following the end of last season and having maintained part of the core, what have you focused greater attention on this preseason? Where do you think the team has the possibility to grow?
- Last year, despite all the vital matches, the team was taking steps forward; acquiring defensive solidity and progressing in forward areas. This year we have to do similar things, show defensive concentration and create offensively. We have to be capable of defending, attacking, and being a good team. We all have to push in the same direction, that's the important thing.
What do you think of the squad currently and what is missing to finish it off?
- The squad has changed a lot. Important people, who were well built into the team, have left. We have lost goals, assists, the captain and solidity, but things aren't always the way you want them to be, and you have to adapt. Young, hungry players have come in and we are going to get the best out of them. They have a lot to contribute. The important thing
here is Real Oviedo and we will try to be a worthy team.
Riki and Viti were two players who had the opportunity to convince the coaching staff during preseason. Have they done so? Do they have a chance of starting on Sunday?
- They have a chance. They've performed acceptably and can give even more. I am happy with them and with their attitudes. With greater confidence I believe they can contribute more to the team. They are going to get their opportunity.
How is Sangalli and when will he be available?
- Marco isn't in his best shape, but he is training with the group now. He has experience and won't be scared. If we need him for 15 or 20 minutes he will be there. We'll see if we select him and how the match goes.
Following Rodri Ríos' injury, do you think that is the position which the club most needs to reinforce right now? What type of striker do you think Real Oviedo needs?
- We are a bit short on forwards in terms of numbers, since Cueto will also drop down to the B team. We will see what we do, since we have been playing with two strikers, but we are going to have to adapt. They all have desire, but we need someone up there who can help Samuel (Obeng).
Have you decided who will start in goal on Sunday?
- No, I haven't decided.
In the last few hours there has been a lot of speculation about the possible departure of Carlos Hernández. Does that worry you?
- I don't hear a lot about it and nor does it worry me. I haven't planned for Carlos to leave. He's a player who contributes to the team and gives you something. Defence is the most difficult line of the team. They aredoing very well and it is the hardest line, with a lot of competition. Three or four players are battling to play, and it means the level will go up.
What do you think about Saúl Berjón and Bárcenas not staying at the club?
- That's life. They were a great pair last year. Yoel gave us a lot in terms of goals and creativity. Saúl was coming back from injury and wasn't at his best, but on a personal level he contributed a lot to the team and transmitted security and calm. The agreements haven't been reached and it's fair for everybody to defend their own stance. Now we adapt to it. We wish them the best.
What do you know about Cartagena? What are you expecting from them?
- We have all the respect in the world. They came up very recently. They will come up on a high and with confidence, with a clear style of play. They will want to dominate the match and look to make things happen. They have played excellently this preseason and will come in with high morale, and the same hunger as we do.
