ESCUDERO: "THIS IS MY BEST TIME IN BOTH FOOTBALL AND LIFE"

Sergio Escudero is delighted with the news that he is to sign a new contract with the club, which is expected to be finalised next week.

Speaking to SFC Radio, the defender said: “I am very, very happy with my new deal. It is what I’ve wanted right from the start. I think this is my best time in both football and life, my son was born recently so it’s a perfect week, I couldn’t be happier.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me so much, my teammates, the coaching staff and above all Monchi, who has supported me from the day I got here.

“I’d like to thank everyone and each and every supporter who has supported me. It has made me very happy.”

On the Leicester game, Escudero said: “Very difficult, I think that we deserved a lot more from the chances and possession that we had… They were stubborn in defence and frustrated us but can’t forget that we won and came out of it with a good result.

“I think if the team plays in Leicester like we did last night then we’ll come away with the win because we’re on a good run of form.”

The 27-year-old spoke with excitement about Saturday’s derby game against Real Betis, adding: “We already know what to expect from the derby. They are very special games with great atmospheres.

“The only thing that we have to think about is getting the win, but there is an extra motivation because of the game that it is.

“Derbies always have a special feel to them and, of course, we really want to turn up and get the three points.”