FCBARCELONA.CAT

09.02.2008 12:50

History repeated

David Puig

The number of injuries to first team players has forced Rijkaard to call up three players from the youth squad for the game against Seville. This is not something new. Barça already know what it’s like to travel to Seville with a lot of youngsters.

History is repeating itself, and in the same setting, albeit under different circumstances. In the game Barça played in the Sánchez Pizjuán in the 2005/06 season, Frank Rijkaard called up three players from Barça B, Rodri, Ludovic Silvestre and Paco Montañés, as well as Barça C player Javi Martos.

On that occasion the azulgrana manager decided to rest eight first team players due to the upcoming Champions League final. Centre-half Rodri started and played the ninety minutes, while the French midfielder Ludovic came on in the 64th minute for Sylvinho, and Paco Montañés came on in the 70th minute for Larsson. The UEFA and league champions put on a good game, despite Seville winning 3-2.

Last precedent – Montjuïc

The last time Rijkaard had to call on the youth squad because of injuries or suspensions to first team players was the last derby game in Montjuïc. The eight injuries at the time forced the manager to call up Botía and Víctor Sánchez. Both watched the game from the bench, and Barça secured a 1-1 draw against an Espanyol who were enjoying their best moments in the league.

Six youth players in Riazor

This was the seventh league match in season 2001/02. Barça faced Deportivo de la Coruña with a lot of absentees. Injuries and suspensions left the first team severely depleted. The then manager, Carles Rexach only had eleven players available and was forced to call up six players from Barça B who, with time, have achieved their own fame. On the bench sat Pepe Reina, Oleguer, Fernando Navarro, Thiago Motta, Nano and Roberto Trashorras. Despite playing a good game, Barça lost 2-1. Navarro and Trashorras placed a few minutes in the second half but they could do nothing to avoid defeat.