Real Sociedad vs Valencia preview

September 27, 2014
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

Sociedad vs ValenciaOut-of-sorts Real Sociedad will attempt to end the barren run of results when they host surprise leaders Valencia, with the visitors aiming to extend a four-match winning streak at Anoeta.

Even if Claudio Bravo and Antoine Griezmann were the only members of the starting line-up to leave this summer, la Real have experienced all sorts of problems this season.

The early exit from Europe should prove a blessing in disguise since the squad lack the needed strength in depth, but Jagoba Arrasate’s side have yet to return to the right track.

The interesting thing is that the impressive 4-2 win over mighty Real Madrid remain the only triumph of the campaign, with away draw with Celta Vigo the only other positive result.

Meanwhile, defeats to Eibar, Almeria and Sevilla saw Real Sociedad slip to 14th in the standings and the team are now desperate to kick-start their season.

After winning the same fixture 1-0 last season, la Real can be backed at 2.70 (17/10) to defeat Valencia and knock them off the La Liga summit.

Ruben Pardon remains doubtful, while Geronimo Rulli and David Zurutuza are expected to miss out through injury.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Zubikarai – Zaldua, M. Gonzalez, I. Martinez, De La Bella – Bergara, Granero – Prieto, Canales, Vela – Agirretxe.

Unlike their next rivals, Valencia underwent major changes during close season, but in spite of some very good signings nobody could predict such a good start to the league campaign.

After holding Europa League winners Sevilla to a 1-1 draw at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, Valencia recorded four straight wins in the league to climb to the top of the standings.

The fact that los Che scored three goals against each of Malaga, Espanyol, Getafe and Cordoba is even more impressive, so no doubt los Che travel to Anoeta in confident mood.

The clash against very good Real Sociedad will be another serious test for Valencia, who are 2.80 (9/5) to pass it with flying colours.

Spain international Paco Alcacer will again be the man to watch having scored 4 goals in 5 matches, while another great news is that Alvaro Negredo has resumed full training, although he is not expected to feature at Anoeta.

With the infirmary at Mestalla now completely empty, boss Nuno Espirito Santo has even more reason for optimism at the moment. Forward Rodrigo Moreno returns from suspension.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Alves – Cancelo, Mustafi, Otamendi, Gaya – Parejo, Fuego – Rodrigo, Gomes, Piatti – Alcacer.

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