Friday, 6th September, 2013
Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernandez has lavished praise on his club team-mates and compatriots Victor Valdes and Cesc Fabregas ahead of his nation’s World Cup qualifying match against Finland this evening.
The 33-year-old feels that Valdes is an ideal team-man and the custodian will be ready to represent La Roja if he gets the nod ahead of the nation’s number one choice in between the sticks, Iker Cassilas.
However, Xavi has revealed that he does not know who will stand between the sticks for Spain today, but believes that the nation will have a good goalkeeper, irrespective of whoever is chosen between the duo.
“Victor Valdes has patiently waited for his chance to come to the national team, but I’m not sure if he’ll play. But I’m sure that he’ll react well [if he does get to play]”, he explained to Barcelona’s official site.
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“I’m not surprised by Victor’s behaviour. I’m not objective when I talk about him because I’m friends with him outside of football but he’s an example on the pitch and he’s an exemplary team-mate.
“Both are motivated when they train and they’re happy to be here. The boss decides who gets to play. Whoever he chooses, we’ll have a good goalkeeper on the pitch.”
Xavi then went onto praise Fabregas, who he feels is a very versatile player.
“Cesc is a different type of midfielder we usually see at Barca. He always adapts, he can score and he’s good for the team”, he added.
“He’s an extraordinary and very versatile player who can play in the midfield or as a forward, he’s capable of giving assists, come in for the follow-up play and get in the area and score.”
Xavi’s country are currently atop Group I with 11 points from five games.
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