FCBARCELONA.CAT

17.07.2008 13:50

Márquez feels sense of responsibility

Marc Guillén

Barça centre back Rafael Márquez is starting become one of the veterans in the team and this year claims to feel the “responsibility for being one of the pillars of the team”.

Márquez appeared committed and focused in today’s press conference, and hopes this year he doesn’t suffer any of the injury problems that have made the last two seasons so difficult.

“I feel a special commitment”

The 29 year old Mexican defender is about to start his sixth season with FC Barcelona and feels like one of the veterans. “I feel I have a special commitment to living up to the expectations being made of me” he told the press.

After two injury-plagued seasons, Márquez wants to perform at his best and play as much football as possible. “We are working with the fitness trainers to prevent possible injuries. After these two seasons I feel I have a major responsibility to fulfil and I have to make the most of this stage of my life” he commented.

Demanding but trusting trainer

Rafa Márquez admitted that this summer, as is normal when there is a change of coach, he was unsure as to whether Guardiola would have plans for him or not. But the new manager quickly made it clear that Marquez was needed and the Mexican was “`proud and happy that he had such good references about me”.

As for the new coach and his methods, Márquez said: “From the day he was named, we have all seen what character he has and he has shown that to us. He makes the maximum demands for thing to work out well”.