I Fear I Might Be Sacked – Diego Simeone

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has said he is motivated by a feeling that he is always close to being sacked.

Simeone, who reports have linked with a summer move to Chelsea, has enjoyed outstanding success in his four years at the Estadio Vicente Calderon.

The Argentine took over a club in crisis and led them to the Europa League, Copa del Rey and La Liga trophies.

But Simeone, who last year signed a new contract until 2020, told a news conference he constantly felt he had something to prove.

“I always think I could be fired,” he said. “From there, I try to give absolutely everything I have.”

Asked about the future of talented Atletico playmaker Oliver Torres, who has fallen out of favour over recent weeks, he said: “I am not thinking anything different about Oliver — I must play him and he must show what he can do.

“Words can confuse situations, but facts are clear. Competition for places is very good.”

The coach also backed €35 million summer signing Jackson Martinez, who has scored only three goals this season and been linked with a move to Tottenham or Chelsea.

“Forwards live off goals and they have a need to score,” he said. “At other teams he did not begin well, and then, bit by bit, he improved.

“The others can benefit from his strength [in open play], although he would feel more comfortable with many more goals, clearly.”

Jackson is expected to start as Simeone shuffles his pack for Wednesday’s Copa del Rey quarterfinal first leg at Celta Vigo, with Oliver likely to be on the bench.