The Atletico players trained for about an hour and 15 minutes on field 4 of the Sports City. Those who started against Valencia had regenerative session. Arda with an ankle sprain did not train.

The Belgian goalkeeper spoke in the mixed zone about the game against Valencia and said he is optimistic about the future to fight for second place.

The Atletico captain emphasised the good second half and highlighted the great work against a major rival.

Diego Pablo Simeone said his team improved after the break and the second half of his team was what they’d been looking for from the start.

A goal each inside the first 6 minutes left the scoreline all square as two of the league’s top sides went toe to toe in search of three points to help on the quest for the Champions League places.

The Brazilian says the team looks ready to close the season the same way they started and seal a place in next season Champions League.

All players in the first team, along with Oliver and Manquillo, trained finalising details for Sunday's match.

The Atletico coach had his full squad available including Manquillo and Oliver despite the problems the Uruguayans had with their plane back.

Mario Suarez was open in his assessment of Sunday's game against Valencia. He considered it very important and says the team has "really wants to play and win."

Simeone arranged an evening session attended by both Brazilians after returning from their matches with Brazil while the Turk did gym work after playing with his international side.