Fernando Ortiz’s plan for ‘Tecatito’
Tano is expected to define his starting XI for the game against León on Saturday, when it will be known whether Jesús Corona will start or not.
Jesús Manuel Corona, ‘Tecatito’ will make his official return to the Liga MX on Saturday, but as of the moment it is not known if he will start for Monterrey against León or make an appearance coming off the bench. Rayados coach Fernando Ortíz has yet to decide on his lineup for the game, as he explained in his pre-match press conference.
“Jesús is doing very well, he is adapting to what I want and what I want in the team. He is very eager, of course, he has shown that in the press conferences he has given and in training. I will see tomorrow or Saturday if he will have the chance to start, I have not decided yet but he will definitely be in the squad,” the Argentine coach told reporters.
Regarding where ‘Tecatito’ will play within his side, Tano was a little more forthcoming, but made it clear that everything will depend on what the player can demonstrate: “Jesus has to adapt to what the coach wants. After that he will implement his own natural qualities out on the field. He’s going have some flexibility to do what he does as a player. I only give him the tools to do that and be creative. I am convinced that we can perform well as a team and hurt our rivals” (...)
“The players need a rebellious streak, and he has that. If he likes to play wider and the move comes off and everyone applauds him, I am happy with that. I only give him instructions to get the best out of his qualities. If is able to start wide and cut inside, then great, I will applaud him” the South American strategist added.
Alí to start
Elsewhere, Ortíz showed little concern about the loss of three of his star forwards due to injury - Germán Berterame, Rogelio Funes Mori and Rodrigo Aguirre. He explained that 19-year-old Alí Ávila will play on Saturday.
“I am one of those coaches who won’t start making excuses if I don’t have a player in the squad for the weekend game. Those who are there are going to do the best they can. I can’t waste energy on what I can’t control. I don’t even think about the things that have happened. Let’s move forward. I prefer to look ahead - whoever can play in the best way, will represent the institution in the best way“(...)
“Alí has shown what he can do - not only against Toluca, but in the second division and with the national team. He is prepared, he’s qualified to be able to play in the top flight. Opportunities present themselves in this way. He is aware and knows that today he is one of the players who could start on Saturday,” Ortiz ended.