FOOTBALL
While Wednesday's elimination from the Cup is a tough blow, the players and assistant manager are optimistic that all is not lost
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Lionel Messi and Xavi Hernández / PHOTO: MIGUEL RUIZ - FCB
Despite last night’s painful elimination from the Copa del Rey, Xavi, Iniesta and Jordi Roura remain optimistic about the team’s prospects in the league and the Champions League. Here’s a selection of the top ten comments made by the players and assistant manager after last night’s defeat that should give Culés cause for optimism:
Xavi:
1. “There are still 90 minutes left against Milan and we’re optimistic and we’re also on very good course in the league”
2. “We still have the two most important titles of the season to play for”Xavi's interview
Iniesta:
3. “Our mentality won’t change because of what happened last night”
4. “It’s not that the team has let go or doesn’t want to win. In some situations the opposition simply have you beat. But there are still some big games left and we’re optimistic about them”
5. “It’s only normal for there to be doubts. That’s all part of what this is about. But the fans are always there for us when we need them”
6.“The Milan game is a difficult one, the result is very much against us, but right now I’d still put my hand on the fire and say we’ll win”7. “It’s a question of pride, need and reality. We are capable of turning the game around”
Iniesta's press conference
Roura:
8. "I’m convinced that we will climb out of this dip in form. I think we need to have absolute confidence in this team”
9. “It’s sad when you’re eliminated. But these players are extremely competitive and they want to win it all"
10."We have an important match against Milan coming up and we’ll approach it with high expectations. I think these challenges are important and we’ll fight until the end for both titles”Roura's press conference