Simeone: Falcao deserves everything he is getting

The Atleti boss has explained that the Colombian striker's rewards on the pitch are due to his positivity and hard work on the training ground.

The former Argentine midfielder explained that by having the right frame of mind, being extremely determined and by constantly practising, Falcao has become one of the world's deadliest strikers.

"He deserves everything he is getting because of his hard work, character, ambitions and belief," said Simeone. "That's what's taken him where he is right now."

The former Argentina international has labelled Falcao as a player who is always "positive" and Simeone is happy to have the 26-year-old Colombian at Vicente Calderon. 

"We are happy to have a striker like him among us because football is all about transmission and he transmits positive energy. I just hope he keeps on going."

Los Colchoneros sit joint top in La Liga along with Barcelona on 25 points each, with Atletico traveling to face Valencia on Saturday. And the 42-year-old tactician expects a tough fight against Los Che, who sit 11th.

"We are facing an opponent in need," he said. "Valencia lost their last game against Real Betis. They have obligations now and a huge hierarchy among their players. Hopefully we'll be ready for the fight because this will be a tough one." /goal.com