Head coach laughed off suggestions that he was bowing to superstition

Diego Simeone joked Atletico Madrid 's change of hotel ahead of their Champions League semi-final with Arsenal was a cost-cutting measure.

Atletico go into the second leg as underdogs after a 1-1 draw in Madrid last week.

Simeone's side were thrashed 4-0 when they faced Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the league phase of the competition and changes have been made to their preparations.

Atletico stayed at a hotel in Regent's Park ahead of that match in October but have decided to base themselves in Shoreditch this time.

Spanish media reported that was on Simeone's instruction due his superstitious nature.

The Argentine is confident Atletico are a stronger side now than they were earlier in the season, as he also humourously batted away a question on the hotel switch.

"We are doing better than in October," Simeone said.

"And the hotel was cheaper.

That's why we changed."
Julian Alvarez is expected to be available for Atletico in a major boost to their hopes of reaching a first Champions League final in a decade.

The striker picked up an ankle injury in the first leg last week and played no part in Atletico's win over Valencia on Saturday.

Alvarez has travelled with the squad to London and Simeone confirmed a decision would be made on his availability on Tuesday morning.

However, then speaking about Alvarez's importance to the side, the Atletico boss indicated that the 26-year-old would have a key role to play.

"Julian Alvarez is important in this game because he knows the English league very well," Simeone said.

"He played really well last week and I hope he can bring what he needs in the game tomorrow."
Simeone was joined at his pre-match press conference by Antoine Griezmann, who is into the final weeks of his Atletico career.

The 35-year-old will sign for MLS side Orlando City this summer to bring an end to his second spell at Atletico.

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Griezmann was named player of the match against Arsenal in the first leg and is eyeing another performance that will inspire those around him.

"The Champions League is always different," Griezmann said.

"What has helped me is that I've always wanted to play in it since I was a child.

"I'm not much for talking to young players but rather for setting an example.

Approaching the match with enthusiasm and joy.

"And during the match, I offer tactical or technical guidance where I can help.

When to slow down or speed up.

"That's where I help most.

Koke is more about talking and motivating."