Athletic Bilbao vs Valladolid preview - Bielsa states case for defence

Posted Sunday, September 02, 2012 by PA

Athletic Bilbao coach Marcelo Bielsa will lead his side back to Primera Division action against Valladolid on Sunday following a convincing display in Europa League qualification.

Bilbao beat HJK Helsinki 9-3 on aggregate but return to league action knowing they are yet to earn a point and are currently bottom of the table on goal difference behind Osasuna, Celta Vigo and Espanyol.

They face a Valladolid side who have won their two opening fixtures and Bielsa knows his team need to tighten up if they are to get a result after leaking nine goals against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid.

Bielsa said: "The feeling I have is that we let in too many goals between the danger of attack and the ability of our defence.

"Creating as many chances to score goals is not enough."

Valladolid coach Miroslav Djukic is remaining modest about his side's start to the season after their promotion, following the wins over Real Zaragoza and Levante.

"We know that it is very difficult to win on the field, but we want to go without a complex of fear, try to play one on one against a great team and see where we are compared to them," Djukic told the club's official website.

"They are very intense, very fast and with high quality. We face the match with humility, work, sacrifice, passion and be unapologetic.

"We will try to grow, improve and learn every day. We will try to be the usual Valladolid, with a plan, defending well and attacking our way.

"We want to grow and improve."