Both sides will be happy to put their La Liga worries aside when they meet in the first leg of the Copa del Rey last 32 stage tie.

Sevilla enjoyed a great start to the season, taking no less than 11 points from first 5 league games, but los Rojiblancos have since suffered a major dip in form.

While beating Mallorca, Michel’s side were defeated by Barcelona, Celta and Real Zaragoza, slipping to 7th in the overall standings.

Everybody at the club is now very motivated to end the barren run of results, which is why the boss is set to field a pretty strong side against Espanyol.

Given that their opponents are also going through a very rough patch, bear in mind home win pays 1.50 (1/2) at Sportingbet.

Jose Antonio Reyes is finally set to return to the starting line-up, with Federico Fazio and Luna also expected to start.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Diego Lopez – Luna, Botia, Fazio, Navarro – Medel, Maduro – Navas, Rakitic, Reyes – Negredo.

Not so long ago, Espanyol were fighting for European places and they are now situated deep in the relegation zone.

Nobody really knows the main reason behind the dismal start to the season that saw los Periquitos take just one point from first six games, but the good news the team have finally started to show some improvement.

While bringing one point from Valladolid, Espanyol took four points from home games against Rayo Vallecano and Malaga, and they are now eager to continue the good run.

Considering that the second leg will be played at Cornella El Prat, you should know Espanyol are 3.00 (2/1) with Ladbrokes to make it to the next stage.

Midfielder Juan Albin is a major doubt with a hamstring injury, but Javi Lopez should be fit to play after recovering from a knee problem.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): C. Alvarez – Rodriguez, Forlin, Moreno, Capdevila – Sanchez, Baena – Garcia, Verdu, Mubarak – Stuani.