Valladolid vs Celta Vigo preview - Martinez confident of revival

Posted Sunday, December 15, 2013 by PA

Real Valladolid coach Juan Ignacio Martinez remains certain his players will get themselves out of trouble as he deals with the relatively new sensation of leading a struggling side.

Valladolid host Celta Vigo on Monday night seeking three points that could lift them out of the bottom three in La Liga, but Martinez is not panicking about their recent form.

"It's true that this is a first for me," said the 49-year-old, who worked his way up the coaching ranks through the lower divisions. "Although I remember that when I was at Salamanca we also had a poor start. On a personal level, it is a new experience, but as a coach you trust you work, and you trust your players, especially when you see every day their attitude...

"We will not focus only on the table but remain committed. We should not despair and must face this match against Celta with strength, staying together."

Oscar Gonzalez and Victor Perez have both returned to training for Valladolid, although Perez remains doubtful.

"Oscar is fine, training well," Martinez said. "I am delighted to have him back because he is a player who brings us so many things. Victor is training well but with the time his injury needs we do not yet know if he will be able to play. We will talk to the doctor and then make a decision."

Celta Vigo, only three points above Valladolid in the table, will be without Samuel, who will require surgery on an Achilles injury.