Che want Ayala U-turn

By Francisco Acedo and Patricio Figueroa  

Che want Ayala U-turn

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Valencia are reportedly looking at the possibility of retaining Roberto Ayala, despite the Argentina defender having agreed a move to Villarreal in the summer.

The 34-year-old is due to join The Yellow Submarines on a three-year deal in June, but several local newspapers are suggesting Valencia president Juan Soler is now hoping to exercise a clause in the contract that would allow him to move back for ‚é¼6m (£4m).

Ayala decided to leave Valencia as he could not agree a salary, but the club are apparently now willing to offer him a pay rise to stay.

It is believed the U-turn has come as a result of fan pressure.

Meanwhile, Villarreal's Chilean midfielder Matias Fernandez has admitted he is not playing to his potential and needs to work harder to improve his form.

"It seemed that I was feeling better, but at the moment I am not playing as expected, so I have to work harder to improve my performances," he told La Tercera.

"I need to be calm when I have the ball at my feet and not play in such a hurry.

"I am the first to admit I am not playing very well. It is something I am very clear about."

Fernandez has played constantly since he arrived in Spain, but would not reveal whether he will withdraw from the Chile national team for the Copa America as a result.

"As I have said many times, I have played a lot of games, but I am going to have time for a rest.

"Anyway, at this time, I am only thinking about Villarreal. There is still a long time to go until the Copa America."

And team-mate Robert Pires has set his sights on reaching next season's Uefa Cup.

The former Arsenal man, who scored against Barcelona at the weekend, believes it is obligatory for Villarreal to play in Europe.

"Our objective is to gain a place in the next Uefa Cup," he said

"People may believe it will be difficult, but the players are prepared for this challenge. It is our obligation."