Another big night is on the horizon for FC Barcelona as they face Newcastle United at St. James' Park in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. Coach Hansi Flick appeared before the press on Monday at the venue for Tuesday's game. "It's one of the most important moments of the season and we are all ready for it," said Flick before analysing the challenge facing his side in England: "We will find a great atmosphere [in St. James' Park] against a very intense team who are quick on the break and strong at the back. We ourselves will have to defend really well." 

The tie is over two legs but the German coach knows that a good result away from home is of paramount importance. "We have two game but both count. We save that against Atlético Madrid," revealed Flick. 

The blaugrana boss confessed to being a fan of English Football: "The Premier League is the best league in the world. There are lost of strong teams with a lot of resources and they have a lot of teams in the last 16." Nevertheless, the coach is confident ahead of the clash in Newcastle: "We have a lot of quality and we want to keep playing as Barça knows how and show that to our fans." 

The Barça boss also highlighted the special nature of European competition. "The Champions League is different and everybody wants to show what they can do. They will press us high up the pitch and we will have to be brave and have confidence. They are excellent on the counter with quality players with pace," warned Flick. 

Finally, the coach showed his appreciation as always for Barça's young players such as Cubarsí, Fermín, Lamine and Bernal. "Their quality is incredible and their performances in Bilbao [against Athletic Club] were spectacular," concluded the blaugrana coach. 

 

Força Barça