Osasuna vs Deportivo La Coruna preview - Depor to face Sola power

Posted Sunday, January 20, 2013 by PA

Osasuna striker Kike Sola is hoping last weekend's 0-0 draw against Real Madrid can kick their season into life as they host Deportivo la Coruna in a clash between the bottom two in the Primera Division.

Los Rojillos have not won in seven games as their struggles in front of goal continue with just 14 goals from 19 league games this season, but Sola believes it is not just up to he and the other strikers at the club to solve that problem.

He told the club's website: "They are the same as us and I am sure they will come with a lot of desire. With the change of manager it seems they have achieved positive things but we have to believe in ourselves and be strong at home with our fans.

"They always help and support us and we play with one more at home. The point against Real Madrid last week could be a very good one if we win on Sunday.

"It is costing us to score goals. We haven't attacked with clarity. We are 11 and everyone has to go forward. We can only keep trying because in defence we are very good."

Club captain Patxi Punal is expected to return to the starting line-up in the absence Oier, David Timor and Anthony Annan for the hosts, whilst Emiliano Armenteros is also a doubt with a hamstring problem.

Depor, meanwhile, travel to Pamplona with renewed confidence despite their current league position having taken four points from a possible six since Domingos Paciencia took charge and he is looking for his side to grind out another result this weekend.

He told Marca: "It is normal we want to win a game against a team that is below us. It is important too to consolidate all that we have been doing. We know that it is going to be difficult because it is a difficult place to go against a team with attitude and aggression. We have to work very hard to win."

The Portuguese coach though has yet to field club legend Juan Carlos Valeron since taking over and insists Depor are not in a position where they can afford luxury players.

"Valeron is a professional and is spectacular with the group, he plays well with the ball and if the team was playing well and with confidence it is easy for him to play, but right now the team has other needs. We need a player with more capacity to work with intensity."

On-loan Atletico Madrid defender Silvio will come in for his first start for the club in place of the suspended Evaldo at left-back, whilst Ayoza and Laure remain out.