Always ready for the big challenges. Joan Garcia spoke ahead of the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 clash against Newcastle. “We’re really looking forward to the match against Newcastle" said the Barça keeper. "We’re clear about what we have to do ... It’s a two-legged tie. At home they’ll want to get the best possible result. We’ll do our job: try to keep possession and minimise mistakes.”

 

“We’ve had long weeks to analyse ourselves" he continued. "I think we’ve improved certain things, especially our pressing. In the last few matches we’ve taken a step forward ... We’re a young team and we haven’t experienced many ties at this level. The tie against Atlético Madrid helped us learn.”

“It helps that we’ve played here before. I remember a good performance from us. But every game is different and we’ll have to be very focused. Newcastle try to match you in one-on-one situations because they trust their physical strength. We did well when we came here before and we’ll have to continue along the same lines.”

On a more personal note he ended by commenting that “in recent seasons I’ve been feeling comfortable. I’ve improved in many aspects and little by little I keep learning. I’m happy with the season, but there are always small things that can be improved.”

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