RIOJA: "tHE TEAM HAVE DESIRE AND HUNGER" | OneFootball

Luis Rioja was on the scoresheet for Valencia CF againstTorino FC in the Trofeu Taronja, and he talked after the game to VCF Media.

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Good feelings

The team have shown what we're capable of. We competed from the first minute, besides having an extra man in the second half -which is something that doesn't suit any team in these games, where we want to prepare. But eleven against eleven, we were the better side as well, and it showed on the pitch and on the scoresheet.

Continuing from the second half of last season

We know that the second half of last season was very good, and it's the path we'll follow and what we want to do from the start of the campaign. The team are preparing well, and today it was shown on the pitch that the preseason has been good, and the team have desire and hunger. We hope that will also be evident next Saturday.

Mestalla

We are aware that part of our objective goes through Mestalla. It's a ground that pushes the team and supports the players, giving you the encouragement that helps you. We've proven that, and we'll try to show it on Matchday 1. We want to bring that excitement and have them spur us on as much as we do them all season.

His great goal

A goal always gives you more confidence. But beyond the goal, I'm feeling very comfortable. The team and I have done a great job. It's always good to be in preseason from the beginning, to adapt to the style of play and your teammates. I'm happy to be here from day one this year and be able to be with my teammates.

Javi Guerra and César Tárrega

We know they're two important players and are cornerstones for this club. They are homegrown players from the region. Javi Guerra, who scored two great goals, is a player who gives us a lot and makes a difference, giving us balance in midfield. César was the team's breakout player last year. Watching him compete and train is an inspiration and motivates me. He's a product of the club, who has it in his heart, and him wearing the captain's armband is very important to carry over from Gaya. We have the centre back role covered for many years and the Valencian aspect will be passed down from generation to generation.