Martin Valjent has revealed the secret behind playing every minute of La Liga football so far this campaign.

One of just two outfield players this season to achieve such a feat, the defender says there is more than just one factor which contributes to maintaining peak condition.

“I think it’s a mix of a lot of things,” he told Play Red in an exclusive interview. “Firstly, physically you have to stay on top by training. Mentality is perhaps even more important than the physical side.

“I want to play every game possible and still be available. This is what I love, this is my passion and this mental part: focus, preparation for games, stress - you have to work with this.” 

Regularly undertaking extra sessions after training in addition to yoga and swimming, Valjent believes his motivation stems from a combination of enthusiasm and diligence.

“If you want to be at a top level like La Liga is, you have to work and you have to do it. This is a level I was never thinking I would be at, so I know I have to work a lot.

“This is a game, you have to play enjoying it and with this harmony and then after you go onto the pitch and you have to try and enjoy it because this is the beautiful job - I won’t even call it a job, it’s a passion.”