"They have played well from the beginning. It's difficult for a new team to do this over a long period, so they are doing a very good job," said the Spaniard.
"No, I don't remember Steve Coppell as a player, but I have seen him as a manager. I was aware when he won the award for best manager in the Championship.
"I have a good relationship with him, and I also have a lot of respect because he is a good manager."