"We’ll try to neutralise Barça’s possession game" - Beñat

Beñat Etxeberria is trying to fill the vacant, deep-lying forward role which Ander Herrera occupied before his move to Manchester United; the Athletic Club midfielder says that he and his team mates have no fear of Camp Nou and will be out to break a run of 10 consecutive defeats as guests of Barcelona this weekend.

Between the league and the start of the Champions League, Athletic’s schedule between now and Christmas looks quite hectic...

Our aim is to try to give our best in every game and especially in the Champions League ; we’re hoping to put in a good group stage and qualify for the next round. We’ll be giving it all we’ve got – it’s up to us now. As for the league, our idea is to remain near to the top so that we can be in Europe again next season.

Next up is Barcelona, in the league, at Camp Nou...

We know what we’re capable of, and if we play at 100 per cent, we can beat anyone.

Can Athletic keep Barça off the ball?

That’s always been difficult but we’ll try. They don’t feel comfortable when they are not in possession. We’ll do what we can to make it a tough game for them.

Do you feel more comfortable in your new role playing just behind the strikers?

I’m sure that I will get more used to it as time goes on but I still need to work hard on it; I need to keep doing well so that I keep my place in the side. The season is going to be very long and if I can lock down my place, I’ll become more confident playing there. It’s not a difficult position to play in – all I need is more games to get the hang of it. With time, I will get a grasp of what the coach wants from me – he wants me to be closer to the box, not playing deeper like I was before”.

Athletic haven’t taken a single point from Camp Nou in 10 years...

Every season is different, and every game is too. Last year we put in a good game and we could have snatched a win; we’ll need to do a little better this time”.

It looks like Messi is back at his best...

He’s always a threat – he’s one of the best players in the world if not the best. Whenever he is on the pitch, you are always at risk.

How are Barcelona looking to you?

They look good. They have very good players; they’ve brought in quite a few new players which has given them a real boost.

from Últimas noticias | Diario AS http://ift.tt/1sbQnwS

via IFTTT