FCBARCELONA.CAT

27.02.2007 17:19

Rijkaard claims pressure is on Zaragoza

The FC Barcelona coach admits that Víctor Fernández’s side has the advantage after winning 1-0 at the Camp Nou. But Rijkaard still thinks that “the pressure is on them ".

Zaragoza have to be considered the favourites, as they have a one-goal head start and are playing at home, and as Rijkaard said “are historically good in this competition”. But Rijkaard is optimistic despite going to Aragon without Samuel Eto'o "I am always optimistic” he said. “We are very keen and have a clear objective. To win and stop them from scoring from quick counter attacks as they generally do."

Eto'o

After playing and scoring against Athletic Club, Samuel Eto'o will not be going to La Romareda. Rijkaard believes he needs to be eased back into action after recovering from a knee injury, saying "He has been left out after discussion with the medical staff and the player. It is a shame we can’t have him with us.” He added that Eto’o would not be playing this Wednesday even it was the Liverpool match we were talking about “because it all related to the way his injury is developing”. Nevertheless, the Dutchman is desperately keen to have his Cameroonian star back in time for the games with Sevilla and Liverpool.

Undecided first eleven

In 24 league games, Rijkaard has never repeated the same starting line-up. That has a lot to do with injuries and suspensions, but the players coming in as cover have generally been praised for their professional attitudes. “We have changed a lot of players in recent years” he said. “And things have worked well thanks to strength of the team. There are players that have had fewer chances but they have been just as motivated out there. We have to congratulate them on their attitude and the way they have helped their colleagues."

Rijkaard also spoke about Eidur Gudjohnsen, a player who got the season off to a good start, but has faded into the background following the explosion of the scene of Saviola. “I think he is getting better” he said. “He is training well and I think he has got over his poor period. The team has also helped him. We started with Eidur as our main striker, then came Saviola and there has been less of Messi because he has been injured."