FCBARCELONA.CAT

18.02.2009 14:47

Márquez: "The pressure is on everyone else"

Jesús Carrillo

Rafael Márquez does not believe that there is any pressure on him to extend his current deal with FC Barcelona. "I do not consider there is a need to hurry, but they say something to me before the end of the season that would be better," he said.

The Mexican international spoke about several subjects surrounding the Blaugrana after training on Wednesday and as well as commenting on his contract talks, he also believes that nobody at the club is thinking about Real Madrid. "Despite the fact that they gained on us by two points at the weekend, we are still the same and have the same mentality and way of playing. We have not let our heads drop and nor will we," he continued.

Busy schedule

Looking ahead to the next few matches, Márquez admitted that Barça will have to be focussed. "We have seven games in 20 days," he explained. "We have to work hard, like always, and be mentally, tactically and physically ready. We want to be at our best and we are not going to waste any game because we are playing for everything." Reflecting on comments coming from Madrid that Barça may feel the pressure, the former Monaco star added: "I think the pressure is on them. I think everyone should remember we are the ones with a ten-point lead. They are under pressure because they cannot slip up in any game, but we can."

Eto’o the same as always

When asked about Samuel Eto'o's contract and rumours linking him with other clubs Márquez stated: I have not noticed anything different, neither inside or outside the changing room. Eto'o is playing very well and we are enjoying his goals and he is taking every chance that comes his way. Samu is the same as always."

Set pieces

Barça let in two goals against Real Betis last weekend after a run of form that has seen them concede very few: "Maybe our problem is the lack of height and that is why we let certain goals in at set pieces," Márquez mused. "We have to work even hard and avoid things like this on Saturday. Zonal defending ha sits pros and cons."

The derby

When the Blaugrana play Espanyol at the weekend Márquez does not believe that league position will count for anything. "We are always motivated," he said. "Despite the fact that we have played three games against them this season already, a derby is a derby. Besides, we want to stay clear at the top with the same gap and they will want to ease their situation. It is a game that will mean a lot."