Lopez: Spirit got Atleti through

(GSM) – Atletico Madrid captain Antonio Lopez has stated that his side are looking to complete their season’s transformation by winning the Europa League.

The Rojiblancos face Fulham at the Hamburg Arena on Wednesday night in the first of two cup finals for the Spanish side with the Copa del Rey final also to come.

But the recent outcome seemed to be a distant dream after making a poor start to the season, which will see them finish La Liga in mid-table.

However, Lopez feels that the unity between the team members was the key to their turn around.

“We have always been a very united team. A few months ago of course we had some difficulties and the results were not the best,” he said.

“But we went through the stages progressively and here we are in the final.

“And it’s because we were united that we were able to make it this far. We owe it to our fans.

“I have always tried to imagine what it would be like, lifting the cup.

“As captain I bear a lot of responsibility but it’s not just the captain lifting the cup, it’s the whole team and all the families, that have helped us.

“I think we have every reason to be optimistic because you wear this jersey you want to win.”

Atletico start as favourites but Lopez insists they are not taking Fulham lightly.

“We have never underestimated an opponent – we never go out assuming we will win. We are always focused,” he said.