Óscar Sánchez: "The team seem aware of the responsibility, hungry and eager”

Valencia CF interim coach, Óscar Sánchez, spoke to the media in a pre-match press conference before the Tuesday night game against Deportivo Alavés.

His trajectory at Valencia CF

“I take it all in my stride; when you work at the VCF Academy you get the chance to grow, and now -in a situation where I’ve been called upon to be there for the first team- I’m here to help wherever needed. I feel the same sense of responsibility whether I’m with VCF Mestalla or the first team, because that’s how I approach life: always giving my all.”

The team

“When you’re coming off a string of losses, it’s as much an emotional challenge as a technical or tactical one. We have a good squad of good players who are clearly eager to turn the situation around. They’re talented and capable of doing it, just as they have in the past.”

Getting the call to take over the first team

“After VCF Mestalla’s game, I got a call from Braulio Vázquez telling me I needed to take charge of the first team today for the away trip to Vitoria. I’m confident of the help we can provide; the players have trained really well, showing great enthusiasm and drive. My plan -and the club’s- is to focus on today’s training session and then tackle tomorrow’s game. My philosophy is to focus on the here and now, on the immediate task at hand.”

The dressing room

“There is sadness about the results, but the team are eager to turn the situation around. They have been receptive to what we wanted. They look aware of the responsibility, hungry and eager for tomorrow. I am convinced we will do well. I’m very excited about this, and I intend to pass that enthusiasm on to them. I am convinced that in a sport driven by passion like football is, changing the fans' mood is up to us, and that is exactly what we are working on.”

Players from the VCF Academy

“They are all equal options. Those who know me know that I don’t look at age. Players from the VCF Academy will be called up for the squad. They are ready, though we know we shouldn't rush the process. We need to ensure that when they make their debut, it’s done in a solid way -not just for a single game.”

Players out

“Rioja will be in the squad, as will Guido Rodríguez. Tárrega will miss out.”

His characteristics as a coach

“I try to make sure that my teams have a very clear idea of how we play. I want the team to be brave, to go at the opposition, to pull together and attack effectively, and to play with passion and enthusiasm. The previous coaching staff did an excellent job with the team; Carlos Corberán always took a keen interest in the reserve team squad and was always the first to look out for VCF Mestalla. Now, we need to build on what was done well and put our own stamp on things. The team have potential and there is more than enough ability to get things right, we just need to help the players unlock their full potential.”

The psychological aspect

“We get through this by being clear and natural, and by accepting the situation and the need to take a step forward. The team need to have confidence and faith, to compete, and to do things right; the ability is there to have a great game and win.

Vitoria

“The team are capable of competing in Vitoria; we’re going to make it tough for Deportivo Alavés. I’m sure that we’re going to have a good game, with plenty of energy. We will approach the game staying true to our identity, our view of the game, and our desire to take the initiative, while playing to our strengths.”