Ernesto Valverde's subtle message for Mateu Lahoz
The Barça coach is still not sure what the penalty was for at Las Palmas
But he doesn't think Lahoz's performance had a big influence on the game
Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was unable to dodge questions on the controversy generated by refereeing decisions ahead of Sunday's top of the table clash against Atletico Madrid.
Valverde was asked about Mateu Lahoz's perfomance during Thursday's 1-1 draw against Las Palmas and also about Gil Manzano, who will be in charge at Camp Nou on Sunday.
"I don’t think refereeing had too much influence on us the other day at Las Palmas," Valverde said in his pre-game press conference.
"It’s true that after games when you lose there’s a contained anger which you can take advantage of in a positive fashion. The games keep on coming and the referees make mistakes for and against you."
Later, Valverde was asked about the penalty decision which Lahoz gave which allowed Las Palmas to save a point.
He added: "As for the penalty, I can say that I’ve seen the images again and I’ve still not worked it out… It's the referee's decision. As for tomorrow's [referee], I hope he will be fair."
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