Sevilla slide continues in Sporting stalemate

Madrid (AFP) – An unsettling week for Sevilla ended with another disappointing result as they were held 0-0 at home by Sporting Gijon, leaving them fourth in La Liga on Sunday.

In the wake of Sporting director Monchi’s decision to leave the club after 17 years, Sevilla boss Jorge Sampaoli cast doubt on his future before kick-off with Argentina reportedly interested in hiring him to salvage their floundering World Cup qualifying campaign.

However, Sampaoli’s stock has fallen in recent weeks as Sevilla’s winless run stretched to five games in all competitions despite dominating for 95 minutes at the Sanchez Pizjuan.

Steven N’Zonzi had the hosts best chance when he blazed wildly off target 11 minutes from time.

A point, though, means Sevilla remain behind Atletico Madrid in fourth due to the Madrid outfit’s better head-to-head record.

A draw is far more valuable for Sporting at the other end of the table as they move to within five points of safety in 18th.