Almeria vs Celta Vigo preview - Esteban calls for fan backing

Posted Saturday, April 19, 2014 by PA

Almeria goalkeeper Esteban has issued a rallying cry to the club's supporters as the Primera Division relegation battle reaches a crucial stage this weekend.

Francisco Rodriguez's side have lost their past three matches and could be four points adrift of safety by the time they face Celta Vigo on Sunday lunchtime.

The Andalusians have five games remaining to maintain their top-flight status and Esteban believes the fans can have a major part to play for the remainder of the season.

"On Sunday at 12 (CET), the stage has to be filled, there cannot be an empty chair because that would give an advantage over to the opponent," he told www.udalmeriasad.com.

"And at 12:01, we, the players, we have to give everything on the field.

"If we cannot win by doing this, but we deserve it, we will applaud our opponents and think of the next game.

"We will play a play-off of five games and depend on ourselves."

Defender Marco Torsiglieri and striker Suso are both doubts for Sunday's clash after missing training for part of the week.

Celta have been dealt a blow with the news that striker Augusto Fernandez will miss the next two weeks with a hamstring injury.

The Argentinian sustained the grade one tear in training during the week and is certain to miss the trip to the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterraneos and also the clash against Real Valladolid.

Luis Enrique's side go into the weekend in 12th place in the Primera Division but can not yet be assured of their own survival and Esteban is wary of their attacking threat.

"It's a great team with great players, and they are better away from home," he said.

"If we allow them space, they are lethal."