Paco Jemez paid tribute to Alberto Bueno after the striker became Rayo Vallecano’s all-time top goalscorer in La Liga against Granada on Saturday.
The Real Madrid youth product netted his 15th League strike of the season during Los Vallecanos’ 3-1 victory over the Andalucians in Week 27, thus bringing his top-flight tally with the club up to 26.
“The victory allows us look up the table. My team gave a performance of the highest level, both tactically and technically,” the Coach said after the match.
“The team showed character and [always] wanted the ball. I think my players had a very good game.
“A defensive lapse cost us a goal, and you mustn’t give any advantages to your rivals.
“Coaches always look at these small details to improve [the team]. Surely I’ll draw [from our mistake] and show the players, but there were more good things than bad [on Saturday].
“Games are won by players and often lost by Coaches, but [on Saturday] I made changes because we were losing and I had to take risks.
“I won’t take any merit. It was a game for players to enjoy because I think they played at the highest level.
“At this stage [of the season], without shouting from the rooftops, having 32 points means we can start looking forward.
“We must try to finish in our best possible position and start looking up [the table].
“I told [Alberto] to try finishing the season with more than 20 goals. When you have history in your hands, even with a humble team, you have to be courageous.
“It’s very hard to do what he’s done. He’s a player who fights [for every ball], and his teammates have helped him.
“I’m glad to be coaching a player who would fit in many of the top teams. We’ll soon see him at one.”
