FCBARCELONA.CAT

31.03.2007 12:48

Irregular but dangerous

Despite their irregular form, Deportivo have a quality set of players in every department and have the potential to surprise anybody on their day.

The results may not have lived up to expectations, but Deportivo are still a side to be taken very seriously indeed. Joaquín Caparrós’ side, as well as former Barça youth stars Verdú and Christian has several players with plenty of top flight experience behind them, providing strength in every position.

Solid centre backs

Aouate is a fine goalkeeper, and Depor’s defence is one of the best, in theory, in the league. There are three excellent options for centre back in Lopo, Andrade and Coloccini – all strong and good in the air. Full back Joan Capdevila, meanwhile, is enjoying his best season yet and has even contributed to the attack with three goals.

Consistent midfield

De Guzmán, Juan Rodríguez and Sergio form a typical physical but reliable midfield line. The former is the engine of the midfield, Rodriguez is a tried and tested veteran and the latter can make penetrating runs that have led to him to score three times this season, one of those goals coming against Barça at Riazor.

Desperately seeking goals

But it is up front that Depor have been struggling on their travels, with just seven goals on the road this term. And they will be coming to the Camp Nou without top scorer Arizmendi, who was sent off in the last match against Getafe and is therefore suspended. His responsibilities will be passed on to Riki, Depor’s other main striker.