Gracia: "We are on the right track, but just as demanding"

Valencia CF coach Javi Gracia was in the Media Centre on Saturday to preview the game against Alavés, which takes place on Sunday at 9pm local time.

Continuing a good dynamic against Alavés

"We want that continuity and to improve with each game, showing signs of strength and improvement. There are many aspects to improve: We are conceding a lot of goals. In order to be more consistent, it call comes from having greater solidity. We are on the right track and we are seeing that better results are coming our way at the same time. That helps us, but we are still just as demanding. There are three points at stake and this weekend's game is a good opportunity to continue taking points and performing at our best."

The toughness of Alavés

"Against such a consistent side, who are going to provide a lot of situations in which there are duels, direct play and second balls, if you don't keep up a high level of intensity it is practically impossible to get something from an away trip there. We have this premise in mind, and we have prepared and trained for it.

"Besides the opposition, speaking about ourselves: I think that this is another step on our journey and we need a further step on this away trip to become more sure that we are on the right path. I think that the opposition have the resources to make us work -perhaps in a different way because of their characteristics and style of play. They have certain variations in how they play that could require adjustments from us. These are caveats that will make things different, and as a team we have to use them to grow and to continue taking solid steps towards making this a good season."

Changes against Alavés

"We don't have to change many things, but at the same time as we stick with our style, we will have to adjust certain nuances. If you have more possession, you should spend more time preparing how to attack and also how to defend. We have done this during the week and we are hoping to take the three points."

Options at right back

"We have several options available at right back. Wass is one of them, but I don't think I should give clues to the opposition. He comes into this one off the back of playing a good game in that position. Thierry also had a good game there, despite his sending off. We will do what we consider best."

Talent from the VCF Academy

"This week we have worked with more homegrown players than ever. I'm delighted to see young players looking forward to becoming professionals one day."

Maxi Gómez' recovery

"He withdrew from the Uruguay squad and did not travel with them, due to discomfort in his knee. He has been training on his own and I can't anticipate whether he will be available for the squad tomorrow."

Guedes' growth

"Every player waits to be rewarded with minutes, and Gonçalo is no different. The importance of each player is dictated by their performances, how they train and how they use their minutes. I am happy with Gonçalo and, as with all players, am also hoping for more from him. He has a huge capacity to help the team and we hope that he will do so during the season."