FCBARCELONA.CAT

22.04.2008 20:08

"We are playing for our season"

Jordi Clos

Lionel Messi believes that he knows the best way for FC Barcelona to approach their tantalising Champions League semi final first leg with Manchester United. "We need to keep the ball and impose our rhythm," he said.

In front of a packed press room, the Argentinian forward confirmed that he is ready to face the stern test ahead. "I am fine and really want to play 90 minutes now," he explained. "As the game draws closer we will see how things go." Messi stated that he "feels no pressure" ahead of what will be a game that has been billed as him against Cristiano Ronaldo. "It is a match between two big teams, not one between two players," he continued. "We have to think that we have a very good team, not just any one player."

A decisive game

"We are playing for our season in these two games," he then admitted. "It is what we have left as the league now appears to be very difficult." The feeling in the dressing room is one of confidence though. "We believe that we can win the tie. The only thing that can be asked is that the fans come along and support us. We cannot think about anything other than being unified and playing well to win the game."

Praise for United

Despite being optimistic about Barça's chances, Messi was still full of praise for the opposition. "Manchester United are in good form and have some really great players," he said. "But we need to keep the ball and impose our rhythm. Both these games will be very even, I reckon."