Celades: "I hope this win serves as a turning point"

Albert Celades gave his verdict on Valencia CF's win over Espanyol in his post-match press conference:

A key victory

"Whenever you win it's a positive boost. We had come into this game off a series of games -such as against Sevilla- in which we were the better side for spells, and in which these players showed the grit we saw today and nearly turned the scoreline around. We have also had games such as against Osasuna or Lille, in which we have had players sent off and had difficulties, and the players have always responded. I hope that this win serves as a turning point for us, although we aren't in too bad shape. Winning always helps, and I'm sure that this win will help us to prepare for the Champions League game in the best way possible."

A boost ahead of the game with Granada CF

"We don't have time to think about Granada yet. We are focused on Lille from now until the game. We have to be united, for the good of everybody. The fans are the most important thing and the players are a fundamental part. They have shown pride, ability, performance and more in recent years. They give their all for the club and Mestalla is sure to respond as needed to help us against Lille."

Maxi Gómez' adaptation
"Everything he is achieving is through his hard work and attitude. When a player has the right attitude, they push through, and he's an example of that."

The first half

"In the first half we weren't up to the standard of a team like ours, with the players we have. Espanyol were the better side. We had a good reaction in the second half, not just with the players who came on but also those who stayed out on the pitch. We had chances to score more goals; it isn't easy to react like we did, and we are satisfied. This team have grit and pride. We go through difficulties but the team always react. They have all my support."

Penalties conceded
"Obviously I would like these situations not to occur as much, just like with sendings off. There are situations that we have to improve, which penalise us a lot, but there players never give up. We've had good and bad moments but the team always pick themselves back up from difficult situations and today was another example of that."

Kondogbia's performance
"We need everybody. Kondogbia is a high level player and his performances hadn't corresponded with his ability. He knows that as well, and we try to help him and every other player --as we need them to be at their best. He is an example to follow. Today we had players coming off the bench with energy and attitude. We are here to push them on and help everyone."

Players coming in
"They are important for everyone. Maxi Gómez, for example, hadn't been playing as often, but was always good when he came on. Just like against Sevilla, those who came on today did well. They all know that they are going to have an opportunity, and that if they make the most of it, they will get another."