FCBARCELONA.CAT

27.10.2007 13:51

Rijkaard: “Almeria doing a great job”

Sandra Sarmiento

The Dutch coach has been singing the praise of the team trained by Unai Emery. “They work with humility and they’ve got some good results. They’re doing a great job”, said Rijkaard.

With 11 points from 8 games, they are currently 9th in their first season in the top flight. Almeria has been a revelation during the opening phase, and Rijkaard has been praising the Andalucians’ game. “In a lot of games they have dominated the play, and they have some good individual players. What’s more, they work with humility and they’ve got some good results”. And the team trained by Unai Emery really is doing a good job in the Primera.

Thuram to be rested

Having played in the Champions League clash against Rangers, the technical staff has decided to rest Thuram this weekend. Rijkaard believes that with the recovery of the three injured players, now is a good moment: “It’s not a problem of fitness. It’s just that I can only call 18 players, and with Touré, Márquez and Zambrotta back in the squad, it’s a good moment to rest Lilian”. Messi, however, is back in the squad. The Barça coach says the Argentinean is fine, and could be playing tomorrow against Almeria.

Puyol versatile

He returned to his origins in Glasgow and was one of the best Barça players on the Ibrox Park turf. Carles Puyol played on the right wing in Scotland, but it’s not his only possible position for games in Camp Nou. Rijkaard explained that “in away games it’s logical that he can play on the wing, but normally I see him as a central defender. He’s the heart of the team”.

Henry’s qualities

“He’s a great footballer, and he shouldn’t be criticised. We have to be aware of his qualities and make the most of them. His attacking movements are dangerous to the opponent’s defence, which sometimes we don’t realise. This is how Frank Rijkaard has closed the debate on Henry’s performances for Barça. The coach added that “our game is one of position and touch. It’s been successful, but we need to know that we have a player with speed and depth who can help us”.

Ronaldinho to stay on

Questioned once again about Ronaldinho’s future, Rijkaard was clear. “It’s just a hypothesis, it’s not a reality. I feel Ronaldinho is happy in Barcelona”.