Llorente insists no problems with Athletic Bilbao coach Bielsa

Athletic Bilbao star Fernando Llorente insists he's happy working with coach Marcelo Bielsa.

The target man scored twice in Athletic Bilbao's win over local rivals Real Sociedad at the weekend to end a tough spell which had seen him score just once in his previous five games.

Many have suggested that poor run was due to Athletic's new tactical set-up under Marcelo Bielsa not suiting him but Llorente insists it was simply a matter of time until he regained his scoring touch.

"I wasn't worried, although you always want to score because as a striker you know it's your way of contributing to the team," declared Llorente.

"I was trying not to give it too much attention and was managing to have an impact in other areas for the team, which is also important.

"I knew the goals had to come sooner or later because I kept working away and knew in the end it would pay off."

Argentinian coach Bielsa arrived this summer and is trying to overhaul Athletic's style of play by turning a traditionally workmanlike outfit into a more flowing football team.

"The system is working great. We're all with the coach and it's amazing how strongly united we are," Llorente added. "We believe in the work we're doing and in this way of doing things. Personally I'm getting better. I've adapted well and I feel very comfortable with the coach.

"It's true that I have to do other work and something different from before, but that also gives me the opportunity to continue growing as a player and to use my skills to make another type of game.

"I'm very happy and I still have room for improvement.

"Bielsa has always trusted me and told me he was very happy with my work, both day to day and in games. It gave me confidence and we're seeing every day that not only is he a very good person, but he's also a great coach.

"He has many years of experience in football, he knows a lot and I think we'll improve a lot with him."