Spain international Coke has defended fellow Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann after the French forward was criticised for making negative comments about the club's poor form.
After Atletico's goalless draw with Leganes -- a second consecutive draw against a newly promoted outfit -- Griezmann said: "If we continue like this, we are only going to fight to avoid the drop."
And Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez was later asked about Griezmann's reaction and responded: "Griezmann has to think about what he says. We have values to defend and we cannot say that."
But Coke, who is currently with Spain on international duty, told Spanish Radio Cope: "I think it's fine that he gets heated up, he is a winner and that is good for the team.
"He [Griezmann] told me he was sorry if it had upset me, but he didn't apologise, on the contrary, he just wants to win. And Saul didn't say what he said in a bad way."
Griezmann scored 32 goals in 51 appearances for Atletico last season to help the club reach the Champions League final and finish third in La Liga.
But the Rojiblancos have struggled in attack at the start of this season, managing just three shots on goal against Leganes.
"We want to revert the situation," Coke said. "But we don't have to change our style of play. I think once we win our first game we will see things from a different perspective. We have played worse games and won them.
"I see Cholo [Atletico coach Diego Simeone] as always," Coke said. "Wanting to continue to work and improve."
Spanish newspaper AS reported that Simeone and Atletico captain Gabi spoke at length after Wednesday's training session.
Atletico visit Celta Vigo on Sept. 10 before travelling to Eindhoven to open their Champions League group D campaign against PSV three days later.