Sevilla striker Akor Adams has expressed full support for manager Matías Almeyda following the coach’s suspension ahead of Sunday’s Great Derby against Real Betis. 

Adams, enjoying a strong campaign in La Liga, stressed that the team remains focused on backing their coach while preparing for the crucial fixture.

Almeyda will miss the high-profile clash after the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) disciplinary committee handed him a seven-match ban following a red card in Sevilla’s 1-1 home draw against Deportivo Alavés. 

The suspension includes a one-match ban for the sending-off and an additional six matches for protesting and engaging in a face-to-face confrontation with referee Galech Apezteguia.

Ahead of the Seville derby, Adams expressed disappointment over the ruling, describing it as unfair from the squad’s perspective.

"We need him. He's still with us at every training session and every game," Akor told Elcorreoweb.

"He's the same guy, the same energy. I can't say much about it because it is coming from the league. But for us, I know it's not very fair."

Adams also spoke on the team’s choice to hold derby preparations behind closed doors, expressing his support for both the manager and club leadership.

He added that Almeyda knows what is best for the squad at this stage and emphasized that the Argentine coach has the full backing of the players.

"For me personally, the boss decides what happens. Matías Almeyda decides that the club is behind him and we are behind him."

"He knows what is best for us. He's out leader. He said that's what's best for us right now. For me, I trust him and that's what's good," he added. 

Akor has enjoyed a solid campaign for the Rojiblancos, registering six goals and three assists in 20 league appearances.

The Nigerian international will be eager to sustain his form as he looks to help Sevilla build on their recent impressive run in La Liga.

Adeyemi Adewale