体坛英语新闻：Atletico new coach promises improved ties with fans

MADRID, Oct. 26. (Xinhua) -- Atletico Madrid new coach Quique Sanchez Flores used his official presentation to the press and the fans to promise good relationships between them and the squad.

    Atletico's poor start to the season, which led to the sacking of Quique's predecessor Abel Resino, saw a breakdown in relations with rivals Mallorca applauded off the pitch following Saturday's 1-1 draw in the Vicente Calderon stadium.

    Quique said he will work to improve matters.

File photo shows Quique Sanchez Flores gestures during a soccer match against Salzburg at the Mestalla stadium in Valencia August 22, 2006

    "We're here to connect with the players and the goal right now is to re-launch the team, which has enough elements to be amongst the best in Spain and Europe," he said.

    "The objective is to connect with the fans, because the supporters have the right to be happy, and to connect with the team. Personally, one of my goals is to be a good representative of this club. I give thanks to Atletico de Madrid for displaying confidence in me and I'll admit that I'm really looking forward to managing this team," added the man who has previously coached Getafe, Valencia and Benfica.

    Atletico has only one league win all season and has taken just one point from three Champions League group games. Quique admits there is a problem of low morale at the club.

    "There's a lot of work to be done, such as to raise the spirits of the players, who are very good. Being at this team implies a high degree of demand and we're going to try and be demanding with the players and make the supporters happy," he said.

    Quique's first game in the dugout is the Copa del Rey game away to Marbella this Tuesday.