07.12.2010 23:55

Bartra pleased with European call

www.fcbarcelona.cat

Marc Bartra could not hide his delight after playing in FC Barcelona's Champions League victory against Rubin Kazan on Tuesday evening after going on as a substitute in Camp Nou.

The Blaugrana finished the 2-0 triumph with ten youngsters on the pitch and they all showed that they are capable of playing at the highest level. Bartra stepped in at full-back and looked completely at home. "When I was younger I played as a full-back and I feel fine in that position," he explained. "What is important is to continue growing slowly and do what the coach asks of you."

First team

Bartra completed 42 passes during the game, had one shot and recovered the ball on seven occasions. "I think that if we continue to keep our feet on the ground then one day if we are needed for the first team then they will call us," he explained to Barça TV.

Ballon d’Or trio

During the game Bartra was on the field as some of Barça's star players including the three Ballon d'Or finalists Andrés Iniesta, Xavi and Lionel Messi. "The three all deserve it," he added. "They are the best and I cannot compare myself because they are from another planet."

Below is what some of the other players said after the Rubin game:

Fontàs

"I am very pleased, on the pitch it all changes."

"The whole team helped me along."

"I am very happy, delighted. The game was very difficult."

"Out there I felt very comfortable. I feel good and everyone is marvellous

"The youth team players continue to work well."

Busquets

"It was a defensive game. Rubin played with six defenders and it was tough."

"We have played with the same style that we have had all season."

"Now we do not know who we will play next, but the best teams in the Champions League are now left."

Pinto

"I whistled in this game, just like I always do."

"To play in the Champions League is a bonus and I am pleased."

"Our defence was stronger than what Rubin had and they only had a couple of chances."

Mascherano

"Rubin defend well tactically and it is difficult to move through them."

"I always try to do my best because in this club you have to do that every day."

"Destiny will decide who win the Champions League, but I want to go into February with all the players and with no injuries."

"I am from the outside and I can see the other way, but the Barça youth system is historic."

Piqué

"It was not a great game for the fans."

"It was important for me because it was my first game as captain of the first team and it was a proud moment after so many years supporting this club."

"You have to move the ball a lot more against Rubin, above all to create chances."

"The youth system is a credit to everyone for a job well done."

"I have no preference for the Ballon d'Or and the prize should be divided between all three of them."

"It is a pleasure to see Víctor (Vázquez) in the first team because since we were young we have played in the same team, he deserves his chance."

Víctor Vázquez

"I played with Piqué and Messi some time ago and I am delighted to be back with them tonight."

"I think I played well and it is true that I am very pleased to play with the first team and with my goal."

"Pep Guardiola told me that he was pleased with me and that he felt I had a good game."