Valencia manager Unai Emery highlighted the importance of their 2-0 win over Almeria as they contend for a Champions League berth next season.

The hosts played a patient game against the visitors with both the goals coming in the second half, courtesy of Juan Mata and David Silva.

Speaking at a press conference after their win the gaffer said: "We consider this game very important because we're coming to the end of the season and today was a day to give everything. The fans have been with the team on a day where it has rained nonstop. All the team has taken responsibility and we have won the game.

"There was more to contend with than we expected, but the team is there and those who have had fewer opportunities have proven important. It's all positive, mostly because the performance has not dropped despite the team not having its regular players."

The manager also reserved special praise for stand-in defender, Manual Fernandes. The Portugese midfielder played the entire ninety minutes as a centre-back.

"There were few options and Manuel Fernandes has done a great job and has showed high concentration," he remarked.