Simeone ´satisfied´ by Atletico´s form

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone refuses to look too far ahead but says he has been ‘satisfied’ by his team’s run in La Liga.

Diego Costa’s brace helped Atletico claim a 3-2 win over Levante on Saturday and go three points clear at the top of the league.

They may enter the Christmas break in second place to Barcelona on goal difference, but Simeone has still been pleased by their progress.

“We always imagine the best as always when you start any job, looking forward to the best,” Simeone said.

“We’re really satisfied with our job and all chances to grow up and improve. The guys have improved a lot in the last two years.

“This is not a situation. It’s a whole thing – about the fitness, tactics and committed to a clear target as a club.

“We won’t negotiate our idea, thinking match to match, step by step. In the difficulty we’re able to find solutions and that’s really healthy looking at our future.”

Diego Godin equalised for Atletico after Andreas Ivanschitz’s second-minute opener for Levante before Costa’s goal early in the second half.

Pedro Rios levelled for Levante on 56 minutes, but Costa’s penalty gave Atletico an important win and earned him praise from the coach.

“Great match for Diego Costa today. He converted the penalty with a great quality,” Simeone said.

“It was a high responsibility.

“It’s clear that if the votes for the Ballon d’Or had been a bit later, he would have his chances.”