Simeone: Falcao is the best

Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone believes Radamel Falcao is the best striker in the world.

Speaking ahead of second-placed Atletico’s La Liga clash with Osasuna at the Estadio Vicente Calderon on Sunday, Simeone lauded the Colombian, who has netted 12 goals in eight matches in all competitions, as the best in the business.

“As a centre-forward, without a doubt he is the best in the world,” Simeone said.

“He is a clinical finisher, who executes moves at the highest possible level. Day-by-day he keeps growing and improving his virtues as a player, and that makes him even stronger.”

Atletico are flying high in second, equal on 22 points with leaders Barcelona after eight games and Simeone confirmed his side would take their customary attacking approach to Osasuna.

“It’s clear that we will have to play an aggressive match, with high intensity. I think we must maintain that philosophy of play,” he said.

“We are a team that, wherever we play, we look to play our way.

“What is most important to understand is what we are able to achieve and what we must improve, while we remain sure of this then we will remain close to our target.”

A mutual trust and respect is what is driving last season’s Europa League champions on to better things according to Simeone.

“This (the respect) belongs to the players. It’s obvious that since we came here, as I said one month after working here, that I felt as if I had been working with them forever, and I still feel the same,” he said.

“There is important feedback between us – a mutual respect – and the players have understood the way to carry out what is asked of them in the best possible way.

“All of the plans we lay down come from group discussion and feedback.”