Pablo Remaining Positive

Speaking at a press conference today, the Spanish international said, "There are a lot of games, the season is very long and I believe that we are all going to play.

"No doubt I would be happier if I was playing - that is normal - but I believe that one must compete for their position.

"It is very difficult but I am very pleased to be able to participate and to be experiencing these moments with the team."

So far this season, the defender, who has racked up 128 appearances for Atleti, is yet to start in a competitive match, but he says that, when the time comes, he'll be ready. He went on: "One must continue working. When the coach does decide to put me in the eleven, I must be ready.

"We all want to play, but one must be a professional in both senses: when you play, which is easier, and when you don't."

The exclusion must be all the more painful for Pablo due to the fine start made by Atlético, who have not only successfully qualified for the Champions League, but also thrashed Malaga 4-0 on the opening day. Not that the defender is overly concerned. He noted: "There remains a lot of games. We have just begun and in reality we have not done anything."

Los Rojiblancos will attempt to continue their excellent start to the season this Saturday as they take on Valladolid, who lost their opening match against Espanyol.


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