Falcao hails Simeone influence

Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao believes the extra passion brought to the club by manager Diego Simeone has helped them improve.

The Argentine took over at the Vicente Calderon at the end of 2011, following a poor run of results under previous coach Gregorio Manzano. Simeone, who previously played for Los Rojiblancos, then went on to lead his side to Europa League glory and, following a strong start to the current campaign, Falcao has now hailed the boss' influence at the club. "We have improved a lot, we have strengthened as a team and as a group," Falcao said. "Passing a year together has helped us to know and also adapt to the ideas the coach has, and especially to assimilate his passion for the sport that has helped us greatly improve."