River coach backs players

Gorosito replaced Diego Simeone last month and is hoping to improve the Buenos Aires club's fortunes in the Apertura, having finished bottom of the standings last season.

"Our main goal is to build a team," said Gorosito, who has signed a one-year deal with the Argentinian giants.

"I found very motivated players who are ready to work. They have renewed energy, which is understandable after the arrival of new coaching staff.

"We are very confident about the kind of players we have.

"Our priority is to get to know the players, to make them represent our idea and the history of River. I want our fans to be proud of the players who step on to the field."

River will train in Buenos Aires until Wednesday before flying to Mendoza on Thursday to play a pre-season tournament alongside Boca Juniors, San Lorenzo, Independiente and Racing Club.

They begin their Clausura campaign against Colon on February 8.