Sevilla vs Getafe preview - Michel stirs club-v-country row

Posted Saturday, August 18, 2012 by PA

Sevilla boss Michel has claimed his side are shown a lack of respect by international managers and the schedulers as they prepare to begin their league campaign just over 24 hours after a number of their players returned from international duty.

Chilean Gary Medel was the last to arrive back in Seville, but Michel was particularly baffled by the fact that Jesus Navas played the full 90 minutes in Spain's friendly victory over Puerto Rico on Wednesday.

He told Marca: "It is a lack of tact that teams, like Sevilla, with a lot of internationals have only half a day to prepare for a game. We have just as many internationals as other teams. Only two teams can win our league and the rest are left to struggle.

"I am pleased that Navas played 90 minutes with the national team but the others that played in the Euros and World Cup certainly didn't play as much. The big clubs have more power and get preferable treatment in friendlies like those in Puerto Rico."

However, the former Getafe boss is upbeat about his side's chances this year after a significant investment in the squad over the summer.

"I am satisfied and convinced that the squad has the resources. (Sporting Director) Monchi has got rid off 10 players in this window and brought in players for a price that not many clubs can pay. We have saved money and strengthened the squad."

Of those new arrivals, Diego Lopez, Alberto Botia, Cicinho and Geoffrey Kondogbia are all expected to make their debuts tomorrow night.

Getafe meanwhile face a daunting start to the season with their trip to the Sanchez Pizjuan followed by games against Real Madrid and Barcelona in the first four weeks of the season, but goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya believes they are still capable of making a decent start.

He told ASP: "Fear? No, the start to the league is difficult and we have known that for some time, but we face every game with confidence and knowing that we have a chance against any opponent.

"We are in good form and without any injuries. After the victory against Lazio we are feeling good."

Luis Garcia is also expected to hand debuts to Xavi Torres and Angel Lafita, whilst Miku should start up front despite on-going speculation that he will leave the club before the end of the month.