Villarreal midfielder Manu Trigueros is hopeful that the Yellow Submarine can advance deep into the Copa del Rey this season.

The La Liga side, who start their cup campaign with a clash against Elche on Friday, have been one of the most impressive teams in Spain this season.

"The cup is a great competition in which we have the ambition of being able to progress," Trigueros told reporters at a press conference.

"We know that it is key to keep a clean sheet and to win the first game at home to then go to Elche with a good result. The key is not conceding.

"Last year we went out of the cup at the first hurdle, but this season we hope to do better and to progress further. All the players are really looking forward to the game and to doing well, whoever plays."

Villarreal currently sit fifth in La Liga.