FCBARCELONA.CAT

28.02.2009 17:33

Doubts at Atlético Madrid

Marc Guillén

Agüero’s form, a possible change of tactics and the atmosphere on the terraces are three of the main concerns at Atlético Madrid, where matters are uncomfortable as the side finds itself three points below a UEFA Cup berth.

The mattress makers ended 2008 in second, but with just one win in eleven games in 2009, they have slumped to seventh. Aguirre was sacked and Abel Resino took his place on the bench, but under him the side have only collected 4 out of a possible 9 points.

“I’m optimistic about Barça”

Abel Resino feels his side has a chance on Sunday. “Barça is the best team in Spain, but they can be beaten, as we saw from Espanyol. I’m optimistic, but we will have to raise things in defence and make sure we support each other.” He was speaking in his press conference on the eve of the game.

Possible change of tactics

After two training sessions behind closed doors, there may be changes in midfield, and more consistency at the back, but Abel did not want to reveal any more for fear of giving any clues away to Barça. One of the problems Atlético have is that the team is not compact enough and there is a lack of connection between the defence and attack.

Agüero

Atlético Madrid’s star Kun Agüero has been taken off in the second half on many occasions and the fans have not been too pleased with these changes. But Abel Resino still feels he is a key player: “I think he is improving, the recent birth of his child affected him, but that’s normal. I think he’s relaxed and happy. He is a player that makes a big difference to Atlético”.