Aimar - Che need Christmas cheer

The Spanish champions play Deportivo, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad and Barcelona in their next four league encounters in a period that could make or break their title defence.

Valencia had a good record against the top teams in Spain last term, and Aimar believes they can continue that run this season.

"Last year we performed well against them (the top sides), and we're hoping the same thing happens this year," said the gifted playmaker.

Deportivo's visit to La Mestalla is the first game in the four match run, and Aimar is hoping that the Che can reverse the defeat they suffered at the hands of Depor in the Spanish Super Cup earlier this year.

"We're hoping that the game won't be similar to the one at La Riazor, but we're not treating it as revenge."