Alberto Reina has demanded consistency from Real Oviedo to secure a strong finish to the season. The midfielder, in his second spell at the club, spoke at a press conference ahead of the trip to Ceuta, a match that holds special emotional weight for him.
Reina explained that, despite not having the start he wanted, his feeling is positive. "Each match I am improving, I am feeling good despite not having the beginning I desired," stated the player. He added that external factors prevented him from being at 100% at the start of the campaign, but that period has passed and he now feels comfortable in the blue squad. His confidence is largely due to José Juan Romero, who was key to his move to Oviedo and gave him security in his professional career.
Tactical role and versatility
The footballer feels more comfortable in central midfield positions, but the coaching staff asks for adaptability. When playing out wide, his defensive work and creating numerical superiority inside are priorities. In general, the instruction is for him to get into the box and participate as much as possible in the attacking build-up. Reina says he is adapted to any tactical system required by the coach, a vital aspect in a squad hit by injuries.
Injury crisis and call for stability
The lack of consistency in results, with a recent streak of alternating wins and losses (WLWLW), is a concern in the dressing room. Oviedo sit ninth with 14 points, seven behind the leaders, and Reina directly linked this inconsistency to the injury rollercoaster. "If we continue with these low and high peaks we will not have a good end," warned the midfielder. He pointed out that bad luck has caused numerous absences, forcing the manager to seek solutions and vary tactics, especially in midfield. Reina believes the team's true level will be seen when all players are available, but insists that work and commitment are the minimum expected from a footballer.
The last match, a convincing 3-1 victory over Eibar with a Carlos Domínguez brace, showed the team's potential.
The emotional weight of facing Ceuta
Sunday's match at 14:00 at the Alfonso Murube is the most special away fixture of the season for Reina. The player lived in Ceuta for a long time, played for the local club, and maintains many friendships there. He acknowledged the difficulty of the game, noting that a high percentage of points usually stay at home in that stadium. Ceuta, currently bottom of the table, will defend their fortress tooth and nail.
Real Oviedo will travel by charter flight for the match after completing three preparation sessions. Reina, who started in the win over Eibar and scored in the defeat to Eldense, aims to perform at a high level against his former team. The squad, with 11 goals scored and 9 conceded this season, seeks stability in a tricky fixture loaded with personal motivation for one of their men. Sunday in Ceuta is the next step.
The original report is at lavozdeasturias.es
