Real Oviedo Head Coach José Ángel Ziganda appeared in the Press Room this morning to analyse the state of the team ahead of this Sunday's trip to face CD Lugo at the Anxo Carro. Asked how his adaptation to the club has gone, the Coach commented that "there's not been much time, and it's all been a bit of a rush. We are working on the important tasks and measuring the steps we take. We've not come in to launch a revolution; it's not the right time. We are setting the guidelines. We think it would be a very big mistake to change everything."
With regard to the squad, Ziganda said that "the players are fine. Changes aren't good for anybody, but they are experts and know that that's how football works. The lads are aware of the importance of Sunday's match and I can see they are ready." He also stated that "they are all prepared" for the possible changes he could make to the starting eleven.
He will have quite a few variables in mind when deciding whether or not to alter the team, as he explained by saying "it depends on form and mindsets. I'm open to any formation. The tactics change according to the circumstances in each match. We will try to pick the best players for Sunday."
The message has been clear in all three training sessions he has had with the players. "I say what I think. There are fourteen matches left; a long way to go. It's not a good situation, but there is more than enough time to get out of trouble. We have to focus on what we are looking for. Wen are working on two or three details to become more compact." Asked what he expects to see in Lugo on Sunday, Ziganda replied with "a Real Oviedo that competes. There will be more than 1,000 fans there in blue, and so we have to put in commitment, enthusiasm and energy. The situation requires the players to play with freedom and all be at their best. We are lucky to have so many travelling fans."
Talking about the opponent, Ziganda reasoned that "we all believe we are at the centre of everything, but that's not how it is. They will be focused on themselves. They are playing at home, and will come out with their morale high. It's a rival in the table. It's not a 'cup final', because a final is all or nothing. Nothing ends on Sunday. If we win then we will have to keep going, and if we don't then nothing is over either. Everyone has to be at their best on Sunday."
Finally, regarding his first few days in the city and at the club, the Coach said that "the little time I've had here hasn't surprised me. All the messages I've received have been to congratulate me, and everyone speaks well of the city and of the people. It's all been congratulations, and I am grateful for the welcome."
