Atletico Madrid vs Deportivo La Coruna preview - Ansaldi: Every match is a final

Posted Saturday, November 29, 2014 by PA

Cristian Ansaldi has quickly learned under fellow Argentinian Diego Simeone every match is do or die in the eyes of the Atletico Madrid coach.

Argentina international defender Ansaldi was signed by Simeone on a season-long loan from Zenit St Petersburg over the summer and has quickly established himself in the side.

Ansaldi is enjoying his football to such an extent with Simeone he has already made it clear he wants to make the move permanent.

Ahead of Sunday's latest Primera Liga clash with Deportivo La Coruna at the Vicente Calderon, Ansaldi said: "Since I came here the first thing Cholo (Simeone) instils in you is that every game is a final.

"Now comes Depor and we know it's a final. We have to keep winning, above all at home which is where we are very strong.

"Cholo is a very competitive person. He always wants to win, which is something he instils daily into each player."

As to staying at Atletico, Ansaldi added: "When I was told to come here, I jumped.

"The first thing I told my wife is 'Let's get stronger with this new way forward'. We grabbed everything and we came here.

"It's now a really important goal to continue staying here for many years.

"I have been very happy since I started wearing this shirt, I feel the breath of the people, and you learn every day about the passion that runs this club."

Following an indifferent start to the season the reigning champions go into the game on the back of a run which has seen them win seven of their last eight matches.

Unbeaten in the league at home in particular with five wins and a draw, Atletico should collect three points against a Deportivo side one place off the foot of the table, albeit just four points shy of a mid-table position.

Coach Victor Fernandez is adamant there will be no fear from his team as he said: "Let's go out to win as we always do.

"They are on home ground where they are very aggressive and compete well. We are a technical side so we will have to adapt."

Portuguese midfielder Tiago is a doubt for Simeone after limping off at half time of Wednesday's 4-0 Champions League win over Olympiacos with an injury to his right thigh.