Villa: I would be playing 90 minutes at any other club than Barcelona

Barca have been wary of fielding the Spain international since his return from a broken leg last month, but the 30-year-old is grateful to the club's medical staff

David Villa believes he would be an automatic selection were he at any team other than Barcelona as he continues his comeback from a long-term injury.

Spain's all-time record goalscorer suffered a broken leg in December 2011 and missed the rest of last season, but has returned to action at the start of this campaign.

However, while Villa is anxious to return to the starting line-up as soon as possible, he understands that the coaching staff must take caution with his condition.

"I will not rush into playing for 15-20 days," Villa told reporters. "I want to return but I must wait for the coach to decide. Whenever he wants, I'll be ready.

"I'm fine, but I'm lacking minutes of shooting, I spent eight months without competing. On any other team I would be playing.

"After I lost these months, to be anxious to return is illogical. It is not good either for me nor for club nor my team-mates. Hopefully soon I can play a whole game.

"The sensations are good. I'm looking forward to a great year. Every day you try to get better and evolve, especially physically and mentally.

"I have great gratitude to the coaching staff for the fact they have not signed another striker and that they rely on [my performances] last year."

Barcelona travel to Getafe on Sunday in their first match after the international break.