Athletic Bilbao vs Rayo Vallecano preview - Moreno eyes Bilbao scalp

Rayo Vallecano midfielder Alex Moreno is hopeful his side can follow their surprise victory over Villarreal last week with a win at Athletic Bilbao.

The 2-0 win over Marcelino's side, who are sixth in the Primera Division, ended a three-game losing run for Rayo and lifted them seven points clear of the relegation zone, two clear of Sunday's opponents.

"The win over Villarreal was a huge relief for us," the 21-year-old told a press conference.

"We never change our style according to the team we are facing, we always go out to win. The points we won were worth their weight in gold and we wanted to get out of this rut we were in."

Moreno promised his side would stick to their usual attacking style of play when they travel to San Mames.

He said: "We have been working hard all week and practising our style of play.

"Our attitude is that we have to go out to win in every game. We are one victory from reaching eighth place in the table and we want to keep looking upwards.

"Athletic started the season on the wrong foot, but they are a great team. In the last few years we have gotten used to seeing them near the top of the table and we cannot take them for granted."

Athletic have just one absentee for the game with Rayo, with midfielder Ander Iturraspe ruled out with a knee injury. Defender Xabier Etxeita returns after a one-game suspension.

Rayo welcome back midfielder Raul Baena from suspension, meaning their only absentee is third-choice goalkeeper David Cobeno, who is still injured.

The Basques got an important 2-2 draw in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie at Torino on Thursday and Moreno hopes they will be feeling the effects of that game on Sunday.

He added: "They played during the week and they may be tired. They will be looking to play a more relaxed game, more thoughtful, but they will be just as motivated as usual. We cannot afford to let them relax and try to slow the game down."