FCBARCELONA.CAT

06.03.2009 14:36

Guardiola: “Breaking the run”

Anna Segura

Pep Guardiola believes that FC Barcelona can “break the run” of five games without victory when Athletic Club de Bilbao visit Camp Nou and has faith in “the strength and solidarity” that they have shown.

On the day that he was presented as the new coach of Barça, Guardiola stated that he would not promise any silverware, but that the team would work very hard and in the next few weeks of the season that it what will be needed. “We are sure that we are a team that are prepared to work,” he said. “I think we saw that on Wednesday and because of that we are in any kind of trouble. Things are not that bad.”

Strength and solidarity

“The strength and solidarity” are key things in the team, according to the coach and he knows that he cannot promise victory every game, “but I want to see hard work to try and push ourselves as far as possible. We are intent on trying to keep going right until the end of the campaign.”

Improving the play

Despite going for five consecutive games without a win, Guardiola does not think that the team have any anxiety and are confident of “breaking the run” ahead of the game against Athletic. “Our intention is to maintain our good feeling and to improve our play.”

Cup encounter

Guardiola is very knowledgeable about every team in the team league and he has seen Athletic play on various occasions. The trainer has already congratulated his opposite number on reaching the Copa del Rey final and they will meet again on Saturday. “Games like they have the other day happen every 15 of 20 years. But when they do nobody will forget them and they will want o take that form into this next match.”

Dress rehearsal

The game this weekend will not show how the Copa del Rey final will go, which is due to be played on May 13, but Guardiola admitted that he it could help to learn a few things. “They have good players at the back and players with great spirit, like Yeste, Orbaiz and David López.

Protecting Messi

Lionel Messi has been the target of some fouls and hefty tackles again recently and Guardiola reiterated his desire to see referees protect the more skilful players. “One day they will really do some damage,” he stated. “Lately, he has been knocked to the floor almost every time he receives the ball. The referees have an obligation to protect players that are having that done to them. Not only Messi, but anyone.”