Real Sociedad vs Real Betis preview - Griezmann: Move on from Europe

Posted Saturday, December 14, 2013 by PA

Real Sociedad winger Antoine Griezmann has called on his side to leave behind their experience of playing in the Champions League as they look to continue their push for a European spot in the Primera Division.

Sociedad concluded their Champions League campaign this week with a 1-0 home defeat by Bayer Leverkusen.

While they claimed just one point, from a goalless draw against Manchester United, to finish marooned at the bottom of the group, it was an experience cherished by Griezmann and one he wants to repeat.

However, the young Frenchman - who has been linked with a move to the English Premier League - is adamant the team must focus on their domestic campaign, starting against Real Betis on Sunday.

He told a press conference: "We have to forget the Champions League...and think about giving everything in the league, starting with Sunday's game.

"Playing in the Champions League with Real, the club that trained me, was a dream and I'm proud for doing so.

"I do not want it to be the last time I play in the Champions League.

"We have to have the ambition to go further and go out to win every game because it's the way back to Europe."

Of his own future, the 22-year-old added: "Right now, no I won't leave in January and now there is nothing."

Sociedad are on a run of good form with five wins and just one defeat in their last seven games.

Opponents Real Betis approach the game having qualified for the knockout stage of the Europa League with a goalless draw against Rijeka.

However, their domestic form has been woeful with just two wins all season - their last coming on September 29 - to leave them rooted to the bottom of the league.

Coach Juan Carlos Garrido said: "We have to start by accepting the current situation and by understanding that our true enemy is our position in the league.

"We have to start working and fighting to the best of our abilities to win matches."