Almeria coach Juan Manuel Lillo feels confident as he takes charge for the first time against Xerez today.

Lillo, the vastly-experienced former Real Zaragoza and Real Sociedad boss, was installed as the new Almeria coach just prior to Christmas following the dismissal of Hugo Sanchez.

"This week I've seen a great willingness from the players, and I'm happy with them because they want to win for Almeria," he said. "They really believe in one another, and this gives me great peace of mind."

Lillo knows it is what they do on the pitch that matters though, starting with the visit of a Xerez side who are already six points adrift of safety.

"The fans don't want to hear us talking about things, but doing things. If the fans come and they like what we do, they will return," said Lillo.

"If we pick up the three points we will take a big step up the table, and then things would be seen in a different light and we would have much more confidence and security. This is what we have to focus on.

"I'm not worried about making my debut, only that we win the game, which is the truly important thing."