News
FRI 15.04.2016
The Ecuador international returns to his former stomping ground for an important game in the relegation battle, with his Espanyol side gunning to pull further clear of the drop zone at the expense of old club Levante UD. The Pericos will be counting on the striker finding the net at the Ciutat de Valencia, a stadium he knows only too well, to help the Catalans keep climbing the table. The Valencians, on the other hand, are fully aware of the threat he poses and will need to keep him on a tight leash throughout if they are to have a decent shot at getting the result they want.
The Argentine is poised just one short of his 500th career goal, but hasn't scored for over 450 minutes. All eyes will therefore be on him as FC Barcelona take on a Valencia CF team who have looked hungry and revitalised lately. What's more, having fallen to consecutive Liga BBVA defeats and been knocked out of the Champions League in midweek, the Azulgranas will be desperate to get back on track and not to drop any more points in the title race. A return to top form for Messi would be just what the doctor ordered.
The Andalusians need to show character after three straight losses that have seen them slip down the table. And Jorge Andujar, better known as Coke, is a man who has this attribute in spades. The captain will be out to lead by example for Sevilla at the sharp end of the season, mindful that they need to display grit, fortitude and quality if they are to turn the corner and get back into contention for the final Champions League spot.
Now up in 16th position, three points above the relegation zone, Rayo will be sticking to their attacking approach as they bid to seal safety and so will be looking to Javi Guerra to carry on pitching in with goals. The danger man was on the scoresheet in the 2-0 win over Getafe CF two matchdays ago and will be hoping to have a similar impact this weekend against Villarreal CF, opponents whose style means they could be a good match-up for Paco Jemez's men.
Abdoulaye Doucoure (Granada CF)
A fixture in Jose Gonzalez's plans, Doucoure appears set to keep playing a key role between now and the end of the campaign. Since arriving in the winter window, the Frenchman has established himself as a fulcrum in midfield for a Granada side who are confident of beating the drop. A ball-winner who marshals the troops and has excellent distribution to boot, his influence is as necessary as ever with crunch time upon us.
© LALIGA - 2016