Osasuna vs Granada preview - Plenty of fight left in Mendilibar

Osasuna manager Jose Luis Mendilibar believes his side's bravery has been behind their reversal in fortunes in recent weeks and has assured that they will not go down without a fight.

Just one defeat in their last six games has moved Los Rojillos out of the relegation zone, but they remain just a point and one place above their opponent's this weekend, Granada, who occupy the final place in the bottom three.

And Mendilibar insisted his men are up for the fight, he told the club's website: "We have to play to win and want to win, then the worst that can happen is that there are 11 guys on the other side who also want to win.

"If we are better than the opponent, we will win and be able to have a more tranquil and comfortable Christmas break.

"We know that more than how we have played, we are also brave and this is the only change. If we go, we go in the right manner and not in half measures. Then you can win, lose or draw, but you always show face and believe in what you do."

Emiliano Armenteros is suspended for the hosts so Roland Lamah is expected to return and Kike Sola will continue to lead the line up front after notching his third goal in five games at Getafe last weekend.

Granada, by contrast, have taken just two points from the last 15 on offer, but midfielder Iriney insists his side have the quality to remain in the top-flight.

He told Marca: "We are going to Pamplona with a lot of excitement. We are already trying to change everything bad that is happening and there is a sufficient squad, quality and personality to face up to the difficulties. We will not have a better opportunity than Saturday to change things because we are playing a direct rival.

"We need to lift our heads, work with hope and have faith because the league is long and difficult and whoever has a tight group of men will overcome the barriers."

Guillherme Siqueira is expected to shake off a muscle injury in time to take his place at left-back for the visitors, but goalkeeper Toqo has been ruled out with a broken toe so Roberto will continue to deputise between the sticks.

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