Xavi: 'We need the fans to get all three points'

Barça coach Xavi Hernández was clear about Sunday's opponents Granada in La Liga in his pre-game appearance before the media at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. "A difficult team who need points," said Xavi of a team who have undergone a change under new coach Alexander Medina. "They have improved defensively and they are more aggressive," suggested the Barça coach since the arrival of the Uruguayan to Granada. 

For Sunday's game, Xavi foresees a "defensive Granada", a team who may cause Barça problems. For that reason the coach called on the fans to play their part: "We need the support of the fans to continue our good run."

Praise for the players 

In his press conference, Xavi commented on various figures from the first team, injuries and their roles. With Vitor Roque suspended, the coach also revealed that Oriol Romeu will also miss out as he is not 100% fit despite his "commitment to the team." Furthermore, according to the blaugrana boss, Sergi Roberto is doubtful: "It's touch and go for tomorrow but we hope he is back for the next game." 

The good news it that both Ter Stegen and Raphinha could be back for Sunday's game against Granada. For Xavi, having his first choice keeper back would be "great news as he is a key player for us," whilst the Brazilian has "the same mentality as before his injury." 

The coach also had praise for the young players who have burst on to the scene. Pau Cubarsí has "won the confidence of his team mates and a place in the starting XI in recent matches." Fermín López is "one of the great surprises of the season," for the Barça boss. 

Gavi continues his recovery 

Finally, the coach was asked about Gavi and his recovery from injury. "It's going well. Better than hoped, it's Gavi, he wants to be back now. He is having a text book recovery. He's taken it all in and he is doing everything. Even though he is not out on the field he is still a key part of the dressing room," concluded Xavi.