FCBARCELONA.CAT

04.01.2008 14:18

"Every game must be like a final"

Sandra Sarmiento

Frank Rijkaard believes that his FC Barcelona must treat every game as if they were finals from now on if they want to catch Real Madrid at the top of the table.

There are seven points separating the two sides, but 63 left to play for in the 21 remaining games and Rijkaard is confident that the situation could quickly change. "Now is the time react," the Dutchman said. "We have a good squad and we want to win things for this club. Everyone needs to step up now and start winning. We have to play every game as if it was a final and take every point that we can. The best way to do that is by playing attractively. Normally, when the team plays well there are chances to score and win games. Historically, Barça is a team that wants to win matches and to play attractive football."

Sevilla in the cup

Barça have been drawn to play holder Sevilla in the Copa del Rey and Rijkaard is relishing the challenge. "They are one of the best team that we could have been given," he continued. "If you want to win things then you have to beat the big teams too. We will prepare ourselves well to play against a strong team." Despite the Andalucian side not having the best of seasons; Rijkaard does not believe that it will be an easy tie for his side. He then reflected on the draw against lowly Alcoyano in midweek and does think that it will have any effect. "It means nothing," he explained. "It will not be a problem. But we have to keep in mind that we cannot relax in any game."

Eto’o and Cameroon

There was some good news for Barça as Samuel Eto'o will be available to play for the club in their next three games before going off to appear in the African Cup of Nations. "He will still be with us next week and then he will join up with his national team," Rijkaard explained. "It is not the ideal situation, but if the majority of the squad is fit then we will be fine and we will compete with the players that we have."

Reassuring Bojan

After starting the game against Alcoyano, Bojan Krkic was unable to score one of the chances that came his way, but Rijkaard has reassured him that he still has full support. "These are things that happen," the coach said. "But we know that he is a great talent and has a good attitude and will be able to help us a lot in the future. The game on Wednesday does not change my opinion of Bojan. Like Giovani Dos Santos he will have plenty more chances."