Ayala urges return to basics

The Che have not only crashed out of this season's Champions League, but face a battle to qualify for next term's competition after some lacklustre recent displays in La Liga, the most recent of which was a 2-1 away defeat at struggling Racing Santander.

The reigning Spanish champions currently sit fifth in La Primera, and Ayala insists the players have only themselves to blame for their predicament.

"It's what we deserve," declared the Argentine international. "We have to start winning games.

"Years ago when I was suffering a bad patch in my career I forgot about what had gone before and went back to zero, and my principles.

"That is what we need to do, start to win games.

"We must be well organised and defend better. They are the principles which allowed us to be competitive and win La Liga.

"We need to do the simple things."

Ayala went on to deny rumours that there was unrest in the Valencia dressing room, stating that while not all the players were friends they maintained a professional relationship.

"The relationships are the same as last year. We are companions, not friends, and we are fighting for the same objective.

"I don't get on badly with anyone. There are people who think differently to me like Canete and Djukic, but on the pitch we all pull in the same direction."

The 30-year-old also quashed speculation that he could be on the verge of quitting the Mestalla outfit in the summer.

He added: "I have a contract and I will continue. Nobody has said anything to me about them wanting me to be transferred.

"The club could have sold me when they had offers and they didn't do it.

"My wish is to end my career here, but that doesn't depend only on me."