Gracia: "We expect a demanding game against AD Alcorcón"

Valencia CF coach Javi Gracia looked ahead to the team's Copa del Rey game against AD Alcorcón in his pre-match press conference, emphasising the tricky task that awaits his team on Sunday evening.

A demanding game

"I know their coach and I have faced him in previous years. He is very good and his sides are very competitive -and tomorrow will be no different. They have changed their dynamic to a more positive one. I think that the game will be demanding in terms of the opposition, and we will see what the situation is like in terms of the pitch, with how cold it has been in Madrid. We will see how this game goes. We are very aware that it is going to be a demanding and tough game, regardless of what starting eleven the opposition field. In previous cup games they changed practically the entire team, with the exception of one or two players. Independently of that, we know that we are up against a good team who are very well coached, in weather conditions that will be a little demanding. We are 100% focused and ready for it."

Team unity

"It's a game for Valencia CF players, and for us to talk about the unity of the entire team -not just individuals or groups. All of the squad is the part of the team, and in order to compete with this frequency every player is necessary. I don't pick players based on need -I do it based on conviction."

Growth in the Copa del Rey

"I would like to go very far in the Copa del Rey. In the coming 8 days we have three games, and I hope that this becomes 5 in 14, then 7 in 22, because that would mean that we are competing well and advancing in the competition. Our objective is to keep competing well and keep going through the rounds. We need the entire squad for that. Every member of the squad will give their all, and so will the coaching staff and the club, in order to keep up the demand of competing well in the Copa del Rey and LaLiga."

Injured players

"The situation with Jasper Cillessen is satisfactory. He is progressing well. Kevin Gameiro is close to returning to training with the team, and could be available for the next game. José Luis Gayà has a niggle, and as a precaution we have left him out of the team. Gabriel Paulista, thanks to his strength of will, is recovering well. All except Jasper could be available soon -including for the next game."