Racing Santander Preview

Finances are tight in Santander, as like many clubs who are relegated they find it difficult to be able to balance the books.

Hence the only two purchases for coach Manuel Preciado have been from an infrequently used source - Israel.

Defender Ilan Bakhar arrives from Hapoel Tel Aviv, whilst one of the stars of Maccabi Haifa's Uefa Cup run, Yossi Shai Benayoun makes the trip to Spain to continue his footballing career.

At 27 Bakhar is seen as Santander's starting right back, whilst the 22-year-old Benayoun could well shock a few observers and is certainly hailed as one for the future.

Whilst few players have been brought in, Racing did not lose many either and consistency will be key.  Preciado provides this having coached Racing's B side last season, finishing second in their league. 

In the play-offs his side were only beaten once in six games to ensure they gained promotion.

A mixed trio of keepers in Borga, a 24-year-old prospect, Erwin Lemmens a Belgian and 33-year-old veteran Jose Maria Ceballos gives Preciado plenty to choose from.

For the moment it appears that the Belgian international Lemmens has won the race for the number one jersey, the custodian highly-rated in Spain.

The back four is functional if not spectacular, and with a top age of 28, one of the younger ones in La Primera.

A classic 4-4-2 formation is likely to be Preciado's best use of the players at his disposal and the midfield resembles the defence in terms of age and ability.  Two faces to watch out for are Ismael and Pablo Lago who run the show in the centre of the park.

Yet it is in attack that Racing come to light and they have a number of options at their disposal.

Javi Guerrero is Santander's top man and if he starts scoring, Racing could have a chance of staying up.  24-year-old Rodolfo Bodipo was a star for Recreativo de Huelva and he will be surprised to be meeting his old team-mates so soon in La Primera this season.

Bodipo certainly has the skill to make it as a top player and he is likely to get plenty of chance to show it, playing alongside Guerrero.

Pablo Sierra, Benayoun and Urugayan Mario Reguerio round out a youthful attack, which sees Guerrero the oldest at 25.

However, like Osasuna, the teamwork that Racing show is unlikely to be enough to keep them in the top-flight and a return to La Segunda looks likely.

Planetfootball.com prediction: 18th
Last season: 2nd in Segunda

Star Man: Javi Guerrero

One to watch: Rodolfo Bodipo

Ins: Bakhar (Hapoel), Bennayoum (Maccabi)

Outs: Cesar (Athletic) Julio Alvarez (Real Madrid/Rayo) Mazzoni