Mallorca vs Zaragoza preview - Nunes: Stick with us

Posted Saturday, April 21, 2012 by PA

Defender Jose Nunes has asked Real Mallorca fans to stay away from watching the Clasico showdown between Barcelona and Real Madrid on Saturday night and instead come to watch their side hopefully seal their league survival for next season.

The Islanders have a comfortable nine-point advantage over this weekend's opponents Real Zaragoza, who occupy the final relegation place, and a win would guarantee their place in the league next season thanks to their better head-to-head record.

Nunes told the club's website: "I would like to see everyone. In the years I've been here we know that the fans have responded. I think that the priority for Mallorca fans is to be with us because it is important.

"They can record or watch highlights of the Clasico. Moreover, it would be lovely for us all to celebrate together.

"We are not relaxed, but not stressed either. Mathematically if we win we have our objective. It is another year more in the Primera. If this is the game, the rest we can face with calmness but not now because we are still playing for a lot."

Nunes though will not be able to play his part as a knee injury has ruled him out for the season, along with Alvaro Gimenez with a foot injury. Chico and Luis Marti are also expected to miss out so Marti Crespi will continue in defence and Fernando Tissone should return in midfield.

Zaragoza boss Manolo Jimenez meanwhile has encouraged his side to continue believing that they can pull off a remarkable escape.

A win over Granada last weekend brought the Aragonese side to within five points of the Andalusian outfit and Villarreal, but Jimenez thinks they still have to win at least four of their remaining five matches.

He told reporters: "Our matches are the fundamental ones, a full five out of five would be a dream, four out of five, perfect, and anything below that is a risk.

"To arrive at this game still alive I think most people didn't see as possible. We have got here thanks to the work of the players and support of the fans. The `yes we can' mentality we have to keep until the end of the season."

Jimenez also has selection worries as Pablo Alvarez and Ruben Micael are suspended so Apono, whose goals have been so important in Zaragoza's revival, should come back into the side.