Atleti fans enthused by Simeone, Griezmann and Saul renewals

Atletico Madrid has tied Diego Simeone to a new contract and he believes that has had a knock-on effect, encouraging the supporters.

Published : Sep 09, 2017 11:37 IST

Diego Simeone feels Atletico Madrid fans are enthused by the prospect of seeing him remain at the helm.

The Atleti coach signed a two-year contract extension with the club this week, following in the footsteps of key men Antoine Griezmann and Saul Niguez.

Having earlier identified the secured futures of these players during a transfer embargo as a key factor in his decision to renew, Simeone also feels the supporters have been given a boost.

READ: Simeone reveals why he extended his Atletico deal: I asked for no one to be sold

"The Atletico fans are happy that Griezmann, Saul and the coach will continue at the club," he told a pre-match news conference ahead of facing Valencia.

"I see enthusiasm, excitement and a strong will to compete again. The league started and then stopped [for the international break], but I see optimism."

Atleti has taken four points from two La-Liga games, but so has Valencia - who drew 2-2 at champion Real Madrid prior to the international break - and Simeone expects a difficult encounter.

READ: Simeone's Atletico extension not linked to Costa, insists Cerezo

"[Valencia] come from playing a very good game at the [Santiago] Bernabeu," he said.

"The coach [Marcelino] is a very good coach and he has characteristics similar to those I have. I identify with Marcelino's idea of the game and what his teams show.

"Valencia close tightly, their players will attack spaces and the forwards work with intensity. It makes them a competitive team and it will be a difficult match."

While Griezmann remains at Atleti, he will be suspended for the trip to Mestalla and Simeone is yet to decide on his front two.

"We have options in attack - we can do damage up front," he added. "We will see who we start with. After training, we will decide on the attacking pair."

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