Javi Calleja says he accepts his axing by Alaves.

Calleja was removed as Alaves coach this week and replaced by Jose Luis Mendilibar.

He said in a prepared statement this morning: "As you know, today the club announced my dismissal and that of my coaching staff from Deportivo Alavés, a decision that I respect even if I do not share it, and which is based on the team's sporting situation.

"This is the end of a stage that began last April and that has made us grow as professionals and know a club and a fanbase that we will always carry in our hearts. Last season we managed to lift the team from a complicated situation and we are convinced that this year it would have happened the same.

"We leave full of gratitude to all those who have had to do with this, especially to the two squads we have managed. These players have left their souls for the jersey and have shown us to be an example of honesty and professionalism."