MADRID: Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone on Saturday jumped to the defence of Javi Galan after the 30-year-old left back’s below-par performances in key matches, pointing to the quality of the opposition the defender has come up against in recent weeks.
Galan, who has replaced Reinildo in Atletico’s starting lineup this season, struggled to shut out Real winger Rodrygo in a 2-1 Champions League loss and was unconvincing against Lamine Yamal in a 4-4 Copa del Rey semifinal draw with Barcelona.
“Javi is giving his all, I have no doubt. We are getting the best out of him and he is helping us a lot. We need the best version of him,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Sunday’s La Liga trip to Getafe.
“The other day he suffered with Rodrygo, as most left backs suffer. He suffered with Lamine, yes, as most full backs suffer. We know his condition, his commitment and we need him.
“I consider what I’m doing, Javi is getting more minutes because it’s good for us as a team. We already know Reinildo’s defensive strengths, we have used him in some short spells.”
Atletico is second in La Liga with 56 points from 26 games, one behind leaders Barcelona. Real is third with 54 points. Agencies
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