Football: Simeone wary of Athletic in final

BUCHAREST: Former Argentina international Diego Simeone has warned his Atletico Madrid players to be wary of an intense and fearless Athletic Bilbao when the Spanish sides line up in Bucharest aiming for Europa League final glory today. In an impressive five-month spell in charge, Simeone has taken Atletico to their second Europa League final in three years, the Spaniards having claimed their maiden European trophy with a 2-1 victory over Fulham in 2010. He expects his credentials will be tested to the full by an Athletic side who, although yet to win big on the European stage, will prove tough opponents. “They’re a team with a lot of intensity, a direct style of football, quick and brave, a team that isn’t afraid to play their way, even in away matches,” Simeone told the UEFA website.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 9^th, 2012.