Atletico Madrid midfielder Valera: My knee is responding well

Valera has been out of action for six months due to injury.

He said: “I am pleased. The knee is well and I find it strong. I’ve waited a long time so it’s a nice moment, to be here again and only a little way from total recovery.

“Until now, the knee has responded to me very well, I am very pleased and now, going forward, I’ll pick up the pace and confidence, and soon I’ll be available to the trainer (Javier Aguirre).”