Villa given Guardiola backing
November 20, 2011 14:36:33 UK
Barcelona head coach Pep Guardiola retains full faith in striker David Villa, despite having left the Spain international on the bench for his side's last four games.
David Villa has been given support by Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola.The 29-year-old, who is his country's all-time record goalscorer, came on to score the fourth goal in a 4-0 win over Real Zaragoza, before Guardiola re-iterated his faith in Villa.
He told the Spanish press: "When I tell you that I have a lot of trust and faith in Villa, I mean it.
"Thiago did not start either and he has been playing at a very high level and neither did Andres Iniesta.
"I cannot justify every time he has been a substitute. Not everyone can play, but I trust everyone. I know every player and what they can bring to the party."
Barca are 1213.00 to defend their Champions League title successfully this season, with deadly rivals Real Madrid 1213.00 to steal their European crown.
Meanwhile, Camp Nou vice-president Josep Maria Bertomeu believes that French defender Eric Abidal is close to agreeing a new contract which could see him finish his career at Barca.
He commented: "We have to be prudent. There are almost no differences in our positions. We are very close, but it is not done yet.
"We are still negotiating, but we want Abidal to continue with us. We are very interested in that."
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