Valencia vs Sevilla preview - Upbeat Sevilla aim to down Valencia

Sevilla head into Sunday's tough trip to Valencia with confidence renewed following last weekend's much-needed 2-0 win over Osasuna, according to coach Michel.

Sevilla had taken just two points from a possible 24 prior to the visit of Osasuna, but the Andalusian side managed to pick up their first league win since December 5 thanks to goals from Gary Medel and Piotr Trochowski.

That victory was not enough to see Sevilla break back into the top 10 in the Primera Division, but they are now only four points off the Champions League places and another triumph on Sunday would further increase the returning feel-good factor at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

Michel, who took charge earlier this month following the dismissal of Marcelino Garcia Toral, said of the trip to third-placed Valencia: "It's vital for us and that's how we are approaching this game.

"One result does a lot. The players have always trained well but now you notice a different dynamic and we will try to maintain the focus we've had in training for the game.

"You can never be complacent going to Valencia, but the players are more confident, more happy. They know they can do it and now they have more confidence.

"One result is a lot in the life of a footballer. With the win over Osasuna we got rid of a little bit of tension. So we are going to Valencia with hopes high because we have the team to compete at any ground."

Valencia secured their place in the last 16 of the Europa League with a 2-0 aggregate victory over Stoke, but their recent domestic form has not been so great.

Unai Emery's side have recorded only one victory in their last seven league outings, and last Sunday they were thrashed 5-1 by Barcelona.

Despite that poor form, Valencia are still well clear of their nearest challengers, boasting a seven-point advantage over fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao.

Looking ahead to Sunday's clash, Valencia winger Pablo Hernandez said: "It's going to be tough and as well as that they will be coming to Valencia looking to avenge their cup elimination."

Valencia knocked Sevilla out of the last 16 of the Copa del Rey last month on away goals.