FCBARCELONA.CAT

05.05.2009 20:23

Sylvinho: “We are mentally strong”

Edgar Fornós

With 24 hours to go to kick off, Sylvinho insisted: “we are coming here very motivated. We all want to put in a good performance and we are all mentally very strong and up for the game”.

With Puyol and Marquez both out, Guardiola will have to re-shuffle his back line, but Sylvinho reckons: “sure they are big players and it’s a blow to be without them, but I’m certain that whoever comes in will do a good job. We are looking to play the game with guarantees at the back and I know that the whole squad is 100% up for this one”.

Tough opponents

Chelsea’s performance at the Nou Camp showed what a tough opponent they can be to break down and Sylvinho admitted: “they are a tough team. They have very strong, physical players and upfront they have pacy and skillful forwards who we’ll have to be very careful of. What’s more, the fans are very close to the pitch and will be really behind their team. They will play a big part”.

Madrid demolition “an extra motivation”

Saturday’s demolition of Madrid is still fresh in the minds of the fans and the players and Sylvinho explained: “the win over Madrid has given us an extra motivation for the Chelsea game, both because of the result and the way we played”.