Roura denies rift between Messi and Villa

Posted Tuesday, March 19, 2013 by Foxsports.com

Barcelona assistant coach Jordi Roura has denied the notion of a rift between Lionel Messi and David Villa, pointing out to their latest win as evidence.

Barcelona restored their 13-point lead at the top of the table after an emphatic 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, with Messi bagging a brace and Villa adding to it before Raul Tamudo pulled a goal back for the visitors.

Roura took the opportunity to dismiss that the idea that Messi and Villa cannot work together, pointing out the devastating effect that won them the game.

"This issue of a conflict I have heard many times - it is absurd," said Roura, who is deputising for Tito Vilanova as he continues to recover from cancer surgery in New York.

"Currently the relationship between the two is just like it was a few months ago. I mean, very good.

"Life is a lot easier when you have Lionel Messi. You have to enjoy it on a daily basis when you have the best player in the world on your team."
Villa struggled for the past season recovering from a broken leg but last week saw him enjoy a fruitful return with his goal against Rayo coming days after netting in their 4-0 midweek win over AC Milan as well.

Roura continued: "I've always said that David is a very important man for us. It's a great joy for us to see him score because he brings a lot to the team."

"He has been a very important player this week and helped us a lot
"It's a combination of things, but he has extraordinary quality.

Emotionally for him to score against Milan was important. For us it is a great joy and we are pleased that they are so comfortable together.

"For the team there is no doubt that having players of this level is very important. Their quality is unquestionable."

Despite Barca's massive lead at the top of the league, Roura refused to look too far ahead.

"We are in a very good situation, but you cannot say anything. Every game is important and we are closer, but still there is nothing gained.
"After the break we have to travel to Celta Vigo which will not be easy. Step by step."