Valencia vs Celta Vigo preview - Feghouli wants winning finale

Posted Friday, May 16, 2014 by PA

Valencia midfielder Sophiane Feghouli wants to end a disappointing season on a winning note at home to Celta Vigo in La Liga on Saturday.

Neither side has anything to play for on the final day of the campaign, with the visitors seven points adrift of a Europa League qualifying place and Valencia three points behind in 10th.

Feghouli has been linked with a move to Premier League side Newcastle but has committed himself to Valencia, who are coming off their worst season since 1997-98.

"In my case there are no rumours, I will be here next year, I'm happy here and I'm staying for the long term," the Algeria international said.

"Collectively it's not been the season we would have wanted. It is difficult for Valencia CF to be in this spot, although we should also take the Europa League semi-final into account. We deserved to go to the final, but it wasn't to be."

Valencia won the second leg 3-1 but went out on away goals after Sevilla scored in the fifth minute of injury time. Sevilla went on to beat Benfica on penalties in the final in Turin.

Feghouli added: "We have one game to go, we are professionals and even though there is nothing to play for, we will go out to win for our supporters. We want to finish on a good note."

Celta ended any lingering hopes Real Madrid had of winning the title last week with a 2-0 home win, their fourth victory in a row.

The news fans of the club have long feared was confirmed on Friday, however, with coach Luis Enrique confirming his departure amid mounting speculation that he will replace Tito Vilanova as Barcelona coach.

At a press conference, Enrique said his farewells ahead of their final match, adding: "I want to pay a special tribute to the players, the best group of people I've had as a coach.

"I've been very fond of Vigo. They've treated me well here, but there are other things I must consider. Living away from my family has been hard.

"For me this is a sad as I feel very attached to this club and everybody here.

"Celta Vigo have given me all their confidence and support in difficult times."

Enrique has steered Celta Vigo to eighth place going into the final weekend of the season, but has been linked with the Barca job for several weeks.