Barcelona vs Valladolid preview - Bartra keen on extended run

Marc Bartra is hoping for an extended run in the league-leading Barcelona side after impressing since coming in as cover for the injured Javier Mascherano.

Bartra was an early substitute when Mascherano was hurt against Real Sociedad and scored in the game before helping Barca, who have a 100 per cent record in the league so far, keep clean sheets against Almeria and then Celtic in the Champions League.

The 22-year-old, who is hoping to earn a new contract with his boyhood club as his existing deal expires in June, certainly looks to be making the most of his opportunity.

"I'm happy with the confidence I have been shown," he said. "'Tata' (coach Gerardo Martino) has not doubted once about playing me.

Barca may have amassed a maximum 21 points from their opening seven games - their best ever start to a league season - but that is only good enough to keep them on top by goal difference with Atletico Madrid matching them every step of the way.

However, Bartra believes there is more to come from this Barca side, which is still missing a handful of players through injury - not least Lionel Messi, who is out for three weeks with a thigh muscle strain.

Martra knows he could well lose his place when Mascherano and Carles Puyol return, but he is looking forward to it all the same.

"We want them fit again as soon as possible," he said. "The more we are, the more competition there is and the better we play. If we're doing well now, I can't imagine what kind of level we'll be at when they come back."

Valladolid, who have struggled so far with only one win in their opening six games, will be glad they do not need to worry about that prospect just yet.