FCBARCELONA.CAT

20.07.2007 14:59

"Hard work the key to success"

Roger Bogunyà

Frank Rijkaard has returned to work a familiar mantra as he insisted that FC Barcelona's route to success is through working hard every day.

The Dutch coach was speaking ahead of the start of pre-season training on Saturday and he has no doubt that the path to success is the same as it has always been. "The key to success will be down to the work done every day," he said."

Work and rest, a perfect combination

"A perfect combination for any sportsman is work and rest," he continued. "After working hard you have to have a good night's sleep at the end."

The internal code

Reflecting on the implementation of an internal code of conduct, Rijkaard stated: "It is obvious that any team needs direction and I am the first to realise that it is my job to give that. I do not think that this will affect the attitude of the players."

Henry, Eto'o, Ronaldinho and Messi

When asked whether Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto'o can all play together in the same team, Rijkaard said it could happen. "Mathematically it is possible," he explained. "Every game begins with 11 players and they are part of the squad. Tactically, that is another thing although they all so much quality that they could play alongside anyone."

Showing respect

With Gio Van Bronckhorst, Javier Saviola and Ludovic Giuly all having left in the summer, Rijkaard had some kind words for departing players. "Everyone who has played their part in the team has to be given respect and I have good memories of all of them. I will value my time with those players and they will always be welcome back."