Valverde and Dani Ceballos were interviewed on Realmadrid TV and expressed their thoughts ahead of the Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, on matchday 23 of LaLiga (6.30pm CET). Both midfielders will try to put their best efforts to reproduce the performace in Copa del Rey where they emerged victorious in a game where both of them played a vital role in the team’s success. Real Madrid comes in this game after a great performance in Anfield for the 1st leg of round of 16 in UCL, bringing home a 2-5 victory.
The midfielder said: “Playing these sorts of matches is what you dream of. It's a fantastic occasion for the players and the fans. We'll try to win and settle this rivalry by winning all three games.We're proud of what we've achieved and we're working with towards the future. We're doing well. A few games ago we were heavily criticised and now we have to enjoy this moment and work as a team, together. There is still a long way to go this season and a lot of competitions to play for”.
Appreciation for the fans: “I'd like to thank you for supporting me not only in the stadium but also in my everyday life and even when I go to pick up my son from school. We all appreciate it: my family, my wife and my child. I'd like to tell them that this good period I'm experiencing now is also because of them”.
The day before derby day: “I'll be playing with my child at home peacefully and enjoying my time with the family. I will try not to think too much about the match. We're professionals and we know we have to eat well, look after ourselves and rest.
Ceballos had the following to say: “A derby is always special and more so if it’s at the Bernabéu. We’re in great form. The team's been winning tough games and we want to give our fans something to cheer about, that's what's most important”.
He continued: “It's vital to start the game well and get our fans behind us. Getting the first corner, the first shot on goal. That helps the team rise to the occasion and if this team connects with the fans it's extremely difficult to beat us. The fans always support us, but tomorrow we're going to need them from the very first minute”.
Reasons for the team’s fine form: “The team never loses its head in any game, regardless of the adversity we have suffered at many moments. We possess a strong competitive level. There're 23 players in the squad and that boosts the team's standard”.
His romance with the fans: “It's just beyond words to be on the pitch and to have the best stadium in the world singing your name. No words could describe it. It makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. I thank them for the support they've given me at the toughest times and now I have to repay their faith in me on the pitch”.
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