Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Teye Partey says his outfit must focus on tasks ahead than dwell on their early elimination from the Uefa Champions League.
The Rojiblancos were arguably the biggest casualty of the group stage as they failed to qualify for the round of 16 after finishing third in Group C behind Chelsea and AS Roma.
Diego Simeone’s men are now set to continue this season’s European adventure in the lower-ranked Europa League.
“When you are on the pitch you only think about the team and people watching,” Partey told Marca.
“I worried a lot because it was not good to be knocked out and I always want to compete but when you cannot, then there is no point still talking about it.
“We have other things to look forward to this year and next season I am sure we will be in the fight for the Champions League.”
Despite Atletico’s disappointing showing Partey had a good run on personal level.
The Ghanaian started five of the six group games, coming on as a substitute in the last.
He scored the equaliser in the 1-1 home draw with Azerbaijani side Qarabag last October.
-Goal