16.08.2010 13:15

Maxwell going strong

Sandra Sarmiento

The young Brazilian put in an excellent performance on the left wing against Sevilla on Saturday. His commitment and versatility make him a reliable resource for manager Pep Guardiola.

For Maxwell it was a return to the venue that saw him play his last competitive match for the Club. He picked up an injury in the Sanchez Pizjuan at the end of last season but at the weekend he demonstrated that he’s back in shape and determined to make his mark again this season.

A good performance in Sevilla

Apart from his versatility and commitment, Maxwell has tactical discipline and is up there with the best when it comes to finding the right pass, providing the assist for Ibrahimovic to open the scoring against Sevilla. On Saturday he gave plenty of width and depth to the Barça attack while helping out in defence when needed.

A complete pre-season

Maxwell has been back in training since the very first day (19th July) and he has started every match so far in the opening line-up. Against Valerenga in Norway, he scored Barça’s second goal in the 35th minute. However, he’s yet to score in a competitive match for Barça though it has to be said that goals are not his prime function in the team.

On the way up

In his first season with Barça, Maxwell played 36 matches. He spent the first half of the season as cover for Abidal but when the French international got injured in February, Maxwell seized his opportunity with both hands. He became a permanent fixture in the starting eleven and so far this summer he looks determined to carry on where he left off.