Simeone: "Vitolo needs to win his place like everyone else"
Atlético's coach says that there is a lot of competition for places in attack and Vitolo has only just arrived; he also spoke about Gaitán and Augusto's situations.
Atlético de Madrid coach Diego Simeone looked ahead to tomorrow' visit from Las Palmas in the company of the press this afternoon. El Cholo also explained why Vitolo has hardly featured since being eligible to play at the start of the New Year and spoke about the situations concerning Nico Gaitán and Augusto, who could both be on their way out of the club.
Everyone must win their place, says Simeone
It's surprising that Vitolo has played so little. What is he lacking to gain a place in the side?
Surprising isn't the right word. He's only recently arrived and he's been given run-outs against Lleida, Girona and the first half against Sevilla. He's improving, he's settling into the dynamic of the team. We will be relying heavily on his game and his talent. He's be getting minutes - all in good time - he's have his chance to enter into the starting line-up which, at the moment, isn't easy because there's Koke, Carrasco, Correa... whoever adapts most to the needs of the team will increase their chances of getting playing time.
You've been served a three-match ban. One match for the sending off and another two for sarcastically applauding the red. Do you think that's a little excessive?
I have no complaints about it. The Committee and the referees know what they are doing, they treat everyone the same and I think it's completely just that they do that.
But in total, you have missed 15 games through suspension. Don't you think that's too many?
I've got nothing else to add on the matter. These are just situations which occur as part of the game. The Committee takes action for bad behaviour.
January exits at Atlético
If Augusto leaves, will Gaitán stay?
The club's been working as best as it can to close the squad by the end of January. Augusto has the chance to leave, he's given us his heart and soul. As for Gaitán, we're in the same situation, we'ree waiting for him to decide. If he stays, he'll be just another member of the squad.
How's Diego Costa?
Much better, he's trained well both yesterday and today. He won't be in the list. He's progressing well with his injury.
Do you see the players with the same commitment as always?
Yes, they're the same as always.
