Javi Morcillo says he is “quite different” from Aleix Febas

“I consider myself quite different from Aleix Febas,” Javi Morcillo said. The midfielder brushed aside comparisons with the former Elche player, who is due in Elche on Sunday wearing Celta’s shirt. Morcillo heads into that occasion after impressing in Elche’s 1-3 victory over Espanyol before the break.

He also discussed Febas’s style of play, noting that he had featured more often as an attacking midfielder or a number eight. “I’m here to contribute. I know the qualities I can bring here,” he said. Morcillo also praised the upcoming opponent: last year, he recalled, Elche were enjoyable to watch, while the team they are about to face challenged for the Champions League places before playing in the Europa League. He believes Elche must counter their strengths and make the most of its own.

The win over Espanyol also showcased Morcillo’s versatility. After Redondo was sent off, he moved from midfield into the centre of defence. He said he felt comfortable there, as well as in his usual position. In his view, the team then chose to rely more heavily on possession: “Sometimes it’s easier to play with ten than with eleven. You play in a simpler, more comfortable way.”

The midfielder also regretted the length of the recent international break, calling it “too long” after a busy schedule and a victory. He acknowledged, however, that it had given the squad a chance to work on its weaknesses. “The team is more united than ever and we’re all switched on,” he added.

Morcillo described a side without untouchable starters, where selections can change during a match. He says he is comfortable despite the competition and believes he can line up alongside Marc Aguado, his main rival for the defensive midfield role. He also named Marc, Gonzalo Villar and Ali Houary as possible options, adding that Houary, who has not been making the squads, is “the best in training.”