Sevilla vs Malaga preview - Consistency is key for Negredo

Alvaro Negredo has demanded Sevilla end a period of inconsistent form by backing up their resounding win at Real Mallorca in midweek with another victory against local rivals Malaga.

The home side are mid-table in the Primera Division having won five and lost six of their first 15 games.

Michel's men started well but have slumped in recent weeks, winning just one of their last seven league games - albeit a memorable 5-1 thumping of city rivals Real Betis.

They also hit five on Wednesday night in a 5-0 Copa del Rey success in Majorca and Negredo, who made his comeback from injury with two goals at Iberostar Estadi, is hoping they can build on that impressive performance.

"We realise that we are inconsistent, that we are not doing things quite right and that it can take its toll on our objectives at the end of the season," the Spain international told the Diario de Sevilla newspaper.

"But fortunately we have many league games left and plenty of room for improvement.

"We won the cup tie against Espanyol, lost to Valladolid, drew with Espanyol in the league and now won again.

"We must back that up against Malaga in a match that is so important for Sevilla."

On his comeback against Mallorca, he added: "I always find it difficult when I come back from injury but the goals give you confidence and makes my work a little easier."

Andalusian rivals Malaga have fared better than their neighbours this season.

They lie fourth and also enjoyed a resounding win in their last outing, last weekend's 4-0 home drubbing of Granada.

And Argentinian defender Martin Demichelis wants another win to not only boost their chances of a top-four finish but to also further dent the Champions League hopes of their opponents.

"Regardless of who the favourites are, you have to be aware that they could be a rival for a Champions League place," he told the Diario Sur newspaper.

"A win would stretch the six-point advantage over them."

Malaga lost the corresponding fixture 2-1 last season and Demichelis added: "Historically it has been a difficult derby.

"We realise it will be difficult but we have the confidence to go there for three points."