Real Sociedad vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Montanier eager to get back to match action

Real Sociedad coach Philippe Montanier leads his side into Sunday's potentially pivotal Primera Division clash with Rayo Vallecano aiming to restore confidence after a week fighting off-field headlines.

A number of the club's players were at the centre of controversy after being seen in a nightclub shortly after their 5-1 defeat at Real Madrid last Saturday - the club's fourth league defeat in five games.

But with Real sitting in 14th place, eight points clear of the relegation zone, Montanier insisted he was surprised by the furore and said he retained every confidence in his players.

Montanier said: "The players had had 14 days of work without rest. After losing three games there is a need to recover emotionally and physically. We are surprised by the noise and impact it has had."

Real's slim hopes of nudging into a UEFA Europa League slot have been shattered by their recent run, and attention has now turned to the bottom where a continuation could see them in trouble.

Meanwhile two defeats in a row mean Rayo Vallecano are not entirely assured of safety, although it would take a major charge by one of the bottom three to make up the 12-point gap between themselves and the drop zone.

Vallecano were beaten 2-0 at home by Villarreal last week and defender Alejandro Arribas admitted: "Last week was tough but we've recovered. The team is very focused on achieving their goal as soon as possible."