Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone admits he's thrilled with their recent revival.

They are currently three points behind leaders Barcelona and before they break up for Christmas, Los Rojiblancos must play Real Valladolid away this weekend before Espanyol at home on 22 December.

"We have Atletico in second place and that is that is not so good," said Simeone.

"It is something where we demand more [of ourselves].

"It is crazy what has happened to us; that being second is not good enough and we demand more."