Cordoba C.F. vs Espanyol preview - Ferrer frustrated by slow start

Cordoba coach Albert Ferrer admits he is running out of options as his newly-promoted side seek their first Primera Division win against Espanyol on Sunday.

Ferrer's side were promoted via the play-offs last season to end a 42-year wait for top-flight football but Cordoba have made an inauspicious start to La Liga life, registering two draws and suffering three defeats in five games.

Cordoba were beaten 3-0 by league leaders Valencia on Thursday night, when the on-loan Fede was prevented from playing against his parent club, and Ferrer later demanded more intensity from his players.

"If we can't compete with the same intensity, we can't win," Ferrer said ahead of Sunday's home game.

"We have to think about Sunday and how not to repeat this.

"We have to compete every week and that is something that goes beyond the presence or otherwise of Fede.

"The Primera is nothing like the league we have come from and we are running out of options."

Espanyol claimed their first win on Thursday night in the shape of a 2-0 home victory over Getafe and coach Sergio made little attempt to hide his relief after goals from Sergio Garcia and Christian Stuani took his side into mid-table.

"I hope this is the first win of many. I am convinced it is very important," Sergio said.

"Now the team can work better and will be able to be more confident.

"Garcia, Stuani and Felipe Caicedo make it difficult for opponents.

"They are a joy and a luxury and we have to take advantage of them."