23.01.2011 13:40

Valdés prefers La Liga title

Anna Segura

Víctor Valdés is having a near perfect season and looks a pretty clear favourite for his fourth Zamorra title, but the Barça keeper is clear on his priorities: “I’d give up the Zamorra if it meant we won La Liga”.

He sometimes seems like just another spectator as Barça’s opponents struggle to get near his goal, but when he is called on to do the business, Victor Valdes shows 100% concentration , something the fans could appreciate on Saturday against Racing when he made some great stops from Adrian and Rosenberg to keep his clean sheet - and that’s 10 for the season.

20 games, 11 goals

Speaking on Barça TV’s ‘El Marcador’ show, Victor Valdes, who’s conceded 11 goals in 20 games so far, commented on the possibility of receiving his fourth Zamora title, his third on the run, as the keeper who’s let in fewest goals in La Liga: “it’d be very good, but if I had to choose, I’d give up the Zamora if it meant we won La Liga”.

Guardiola praise

Speaking after the Racing game, Pep Guardiola praised his keeper for his ability to keep his focus in all conditions and Victor thanked the boss, insisting: “the pace the team play at means I’m involved in the game. With the system we try and impose, the secret is in the intensity of our defending”.

From Rijkaard to Guardiola

The team equalled the 2005/06 record set by Frank Rijkaard’s team for consecutive league wins. Valdes has played in both teams and believes that with the Dutch coach: “we tried to play the ball, pressure all over the pitch and play with a high defensive line”, whilst under Pep, “we are more prepared to take risks at the back and if that works then there are more goals to be had. Barça have grown under Guardiola”.

Realistic about treble hopes

Asked about the possibility of repeating the treble won in the 2008/09 season, Valdes responded: “I understand that people are excited by the prospect, but as players we know how difficult it is. However, if we keep playing like we are, the wins and the titles will come along”.