Castillejo: "Our mentality is to go out and win, and that isn't going to change on Saturday"

Samu Castillejo is back in contention for a role in Valencia CF's game against FC Barcelona, following some injury problems in recent weeks. He spoke to VCF Media ahead of the Saturday night showdown in LaLiga.

Bouncing back from a defeat

Every 4-5 days, football gives you a chance for revenge. On Saturday we have a very important game in front of our home fans. Our mentality is to leave the recent games, in which we've deserved a lot more than we got, behind us. We're looking forward to the game on Saturday.

FC Barcelona

In football, you always talk about respect. They are doing things very well. They are scoring a lot of goals in LaLiga and playing well, but we have no fear. It's 11 against 11 and we also have a good team. Our mentality in every game is to go out there to win, and that isn't going to change on Saturday.

Obviously it's going to be difficult, because they play very well. They have game-changing players. We have mentality, strength and the support of the fans, so I'm sure that we are going to have a good game.

Improving in the final minutes

We're having very good first halves and very good 60 minutes, but we are struggling a little more in the final half hour. Beyond a fitness or football thing, it's mental. We have to all work together and prepare for the game with the mentality of improving and winning for our fans.

A strong group at Valencia CF

One of the things that surprised me the most when I arrived was that there is a very united group here. It's a family, and there is no problem with people saying things to each other. That's very important, because it's how you achieve big objectives.

His return from injury

I've spent two weeks working hard to come back as soon as possible. I'm happy and I feel very good. People have welcomed me here. There has been a lot of affection shown and -as I said on day one- I hope to repay this with good football.

Before my injury, I felt very good. I was helping the team with goals and my participation in play. I want to continue improving and keep helping out. I've spent two weeks out, working hard, and the desire to get back with the team is there. I'm ready to help the team.