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Matias Almeyda gave his first press conference as River Plate coach on Monday, and stated his defiant belief that the fallen giants would make a swift return to the Primera Division after being relegated in 2010/11.

"The feeling hasn't changed. I am convinced of what I can be and what I can give - I am new and only time will tell if I can tramsmit this feeling to the players," Almeyda explained to Olé.

"I accepted this job because I have confidence in what I can give. As a player I have already suffered. I like challenges and this is what I am exposing myself to. Whether or not I stay at River for a long time will depend on me. What has happened should serve as an experience. Now let us look forward, and think about the future."

Almeyda also touched on the style of play he will try to bring to River, before adding that he would like to add experienced players to his squad to complement the talented youths at his disposal.

"We are analysing our opponents, and thinking about our opponents will be our gameplan. The formation will definitely be a 4-4-2. I will try and convey the ideas that I had on the ball - an aggressive style of play. Physically the players will have to be strong. I intend to have a strong, quick, combative team, who must be able to play. Recently, River were not playing much proper football. I am of the idea that River will start playing football again.

"River have great players, and those that we have must give everything they have in order to have a good championship. Many of the players here are on the up, others are past their peak. Recently River have depended on youngsters in difficult moments - now we must recruit some older players so that we have a mix of youth and experience."