The long serving Pamplona servant is set to make his historic 464th appearance for Los Rojillos against Real Betis as La Liga resumes action following the international break.
Osasuna captain, Patxi Punal, acknowledged that although he will move into the club’s history books with his 464th appearance, he is only thinking about the important game they play against Real Betis. El Sadar based entity have had an inauspicious
start to 2012/13 La Liga season are will be looking for their second win of the season.
Punal shared that he understands the momentous occasion he finds himself in, stating that his feelings are the same as they would be before an important game. The long serving servant added that he wants to make an appearance for the team, and help the club
take all the three points on offer.
However, he admitted that the recognition definitely holds a sentimental value for him, but does not want it to distract him for the game ahead.
"The feelings are the same as when it's an important game. I say no kidding. File this record, which may be on the field, I do not lose a second of which is to prepare Sunday's game. I want to play on Sunday, be on the team, the match is over and all is
well.”
“Recognition sure will touch me, but I have put my head in the importance of the game," he said at a press conference.
The player, who claimed not to have been interested in whether he Osasuna are going to pay homage to him or not, reiterated that the most important thing on Sunday will be getting the three points that are on offer against the Andalusians.
Punal stated the importance of the match and the points given the fact that Los Rojillos are 19th in La Liga points table. He asserted that Jose Luis Mendilibar’s men need the victory at this point in season, and are concerned about the relegation
slots the currently occupy.
"Of all that is going to be the most important thing is that we win at Betis. Need this victory. At this point in time there is concern about being stuck there,” Punal shared.
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