Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao preview - Mel to make changes
Posted Saturday, February 11, 2012 by PA
Real Betis manager Pepe Mel has suggested he will make a raft of changes in an attempt to return to winning ways against Athletic Bilbao this weekend.
Mel's side have taken just one point from the past four games and face an Athletic side in high spirits after progressing to the Copa del Rey final in midweek.
He told the club's website: "We will do everything we can, including changing many things to avoid losing. For example, we need to up the intensity of our play, even more than the result the fans here demand that you leave everything on the pitch.
"Against the opponent we can't make mistakes, they are an intense team that plays good football. We have to do the same."
However Mel has taken some inspiration from Betis' 3-2 win at San Mames earlier in the season.
"We played very well in San Mames. All games are different but the have to show the aggression we did in that game," he said.
Mario is suspended for the hosts after being sent-off for the third time this season in the 1-0 defeat to Mallorca last weekend. Chechu Dorado should take his place in central defence and Nacho will regain his place at left-back.
Benat Extebarria will also return in midfield but with Mel hinting at a switch to a 4-3-3 there could even be starts for Jorge Molina and Jonathan Pereira.
Borja Ekiza had double reason to celebrate this week as he was rewarded with an extension to his contract after the cup semi-final victory over Mirandes.
He told Efe: "It is a very nice week for me, both on a personal and a collective level. To qualify for a final is always important and very positive for the team, it is great to be able to enjoy this with the fans.
"On a personal note I am very happy and thankful to the club because they continue to show faith in me."
Ander Herrera is suspended after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against Espanyol last weekend so Gaizka Toquero is expected to support the on-form Fernando Llorente up front.
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