Villarreal vs Valencia preview - Molina optimistic of Villarreal turnaround

Jose Molina will make his debut in the Villarreal dugout on Sunday after replacing Juan Carlos Garrido as manager last month and is confident he can turn the Yellow Submarine's season around.

A shock defeat to Mirandes in the Copa del Rey was the result which finally accounted for Garrido, with Villarreal also eliminated without picking up a point in the Champions League and languishing above the relegation zone only on goal difference.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's home clash against Valencia, Molina told the club's website: "It isn't a bigger match just because it is my debut in the Primera Division. Despite this I am not overly nervous because I have faith in the group.

"The team are looking good and the atmosphere is upbeat. They want to put on a good show and obviously win as it is the three points we need the most. Despite the situation we are in, I am very excited and optimistic about the future."

Wakaso Mubarak has joined Jose Catala and Giuseppe Rossi on the Villarreal injury list after breaking his nose and Mateo Musacchio is also a doubt.

Valencia returned to action after the winter break with a 1-0 victory over Sevilla in the cup in midweek, but despite the tie still being very much alive for the second leg on Wednesday goalkeeper Diego Alves insists their focus is very much on maintaining their grip on third place.

He told the club's website, "Now we have to concentrate on the league and we have an important game on Sunday if we are to continue in third and sustain the confidence within the squad."

Jonas Goncalves was the match-winner against Sevilla and Alves was also full of praise for the positive impact his compatriot has made so far this season.

"He is just as good at creating chances as he is in front of goal," he said. "We know what he is capable of and whenever he gets the chance he makes it count."

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