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Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera: Cadiz clash opportunity to get season on track

Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera says they see Friday's clash with Cadiz as a chance to get their season on track.

After two draws and three losses in their last five fixtures, Athletic are now five points away from the final European qualification spot. But Herrera is convinced the Lions can turn things around.

"We're trying to ensure that this period in which we've picked up few points doesn't change our philosophy," Herrera said at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

"Looking at the first half of the season, except for three games in which we were inferior, we did a lot of things well.

"Normally we've always controlled our opponents, played in the opposition's half and created a lot of chances. We must not deviate from that idea.

"Friday's match against Cádiz at San Mames is extremely important for us. Right now there are five points between fifth and ninth. Getting three points is fundamental and we can't let them slip away. We want our fans to know that, we want them to push us on.

"Throughout every season there are moments of difficulty like this one in terms of points, not in terms of confidence, and on Friday we have a huge opportunity to get closer to Europe".

On a personal level, the midfielder, whose loan move from Paris St Germain was made permanent on Wednesday, admitted he is feeling better now after overcoming some injury issues.

He said: "I feel good, physically I'm getting better and better. I'm doing my best to give the coach options and enjoy myself.

"Throughout my career I've always been someone who likes to play, regardless of the position. I've always adapted throughout my career. It depends on the opponent, the match and form, both mine and that of my team-mates, one day I'll play in one position or another."

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