One of the side effects of Sevilla's sharp downturn in form has been Atletico Madrid rising back into the top three of LaLiga, a position Diego Simeone accepts is a bit of a surprise.
Los Rojiblancos have forever been recovering from early season stutters, but when facing Real Sociedad on Tuesday, the coach is looking for his side to justify their position.
"We find ourselves unexpectedly in third place, level with Sevilla," Simeone stated to his press conference.
"The fixture list looks tough and the only way we can back that up is by not looking beyond tomorrow [against Sociedad].
"They are a team that's done very well this season, beyond their usual self with a strong approach and constant development.
"I look at them as a rival for tomorrow's game and that's how we're most comfortable. They have reached a great level, especially away from home, so we'll need the Estadio Vicente Calderon to support the team and focus on catching those side's above us."
Whether Kevin Gameiro will be fit or not for the 21:30 CET kick-off remains to be seen, although Simeone noted that the forward is training with the first-team.
"Today I haven't spoken to the physios but yesterday he trained and we will see how he feels," added the Argentine.
"Not only with him, with any footballer I want to see their best version out on the pitch because we demand 100 percent and for that he has to be fit.
"I want them to always be in top shape, unless it's a final, in case someone wants to do a Costa."
The Atletico boss also failed to rule out suggestions that Koke and Stefan Savic will be rested for the midweek fixture given they are on the verge of suspension, and with the Madrid derby on Sunday April 8.
