FCBARCELONA.CAT

26.02.2008 21:30

“I expect a great game from Barça”

Marc Guillén

Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard told his press conference that he expects a great game from Barça against a Valencia side that is starting to find its feet again.

FC Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard knows how important it will be to get a good result at the Camp Nou in order to make the Copa del Rey final. Wednesday night’s match is as decisive as any this season.

“Important to win at home”

After three rounds in which Barça played the second legs at home, this is the first time they will start at home in the Copa de Rey this season. For that reason “it is very important to do well and win in front of our fans against a big team like Valencia. I hope to see a good game from Barça”.

On Valencia, Rijkaard observed that “they are playing better lately. The team has some quality players and they will be hoping to get through the round”. He also said that he is delighted that the fans are happy, but that they should not start getting carried away, because nothing has been won yet.

Ronaldinho and Márquez left out

Only 16 players can be named for Cup games and so apart from the injured Márquez, there are no places for Sylvinho, Giovani, Gudjohnsen or Ronaldinho.

On Ronaldinho, the Dutchman commented that “we have a lot of players and of course I have to choose. I have spoken to him and he is fine. He is improving and on good form. But we have a lot of games in a row like the one with Atlético Madrid and so I would prefer him to sit out tomorrow’s game and train in the morning”.

Márquez is not yet fully fit and has been left out too, but the boss assured listeners that as soon as the Mexican is ready, he will be back on the squad list.