Patricio Moreno: "We are proud and satisfied with the work by the team"

Patricio Moreno spoke in front of the media at a press conferene held at Mestalla following the victory over Elche CF (2-1).

How are Alderete and Bordalás doing?

They are well, bearing in mind the setback that happened. They tested positive this morning and the PCR confirmed it.

What is your assessment of the game?

We are satisfied with the work by the team. We started the game well, pressing high, dominating with direct play. We got forward a lot and had chances. We took the lead and we had chances to extend that advantage. In the second half we started well, but Elche were creating difficulties and leaving players free. They got their equaliser from a set piece. The team showed mental strength were able to score the second goal to achieve the victory.

What does Piccini's goal mean on a mental level, after his return from injury?

It's a huge joy for him. Injuries are the worst thing in football. He has continued working and today he scored that goal. We are very happy for him. He deserves it.

Cillessen saved late on from a similar chance to the Elche equaliser. How is it possible?

Elche are powerful in set pieces. We have to be more forceful and not concede crosses, but the opposition also have their merits. We must improve, learn from those moves and make sure that they do not happen again.
 
What is the protocol for the COVID-19 infections now?

We have to be positive and hope that there are no more infections. We have to speak with the medical services and they will inform us of the protocol to follow.

Was there any contact with the coach during the game?

We have been in constant contact since the first positive test occurred. We have spoken with him every minute and he has shared with us what he saw when watching the game from home. He is our leader and we want this to pass as quickly as possible, so that he can return to his usual normal routine.
 
How far are the team from reaching their potential in terms of performance?

We are ambitious. We try to demand improvement every day and not set limits. We have great players and we know where our victories are, as well as the defects that we have to improve. We must not set limits for ourselves.

Are you candidates for Europe?

We do not think about the table. We have to go week by week and see where we can aspire to finish.

With the losses due to COVID, injuries and suspensions, it will be difficult to put together a starting eleven against Levante.

We will try to get to the game with the best eleven possible to face the match.

How is Lato doing?

I have spoken to him. He tells me that he thinks it won't be a serious injury. Hopefully it is as small as possible.

How do you rate the performance of the defence? Diakhaby was tremendous.

Diakhaby has worked very hard to improve. We want him to continue like this and with that attitude, because it is the way to improve. You can see the results on the pitch.