Sevilla midfielder Vicente Iborra has stressed the importance of his team playing at home against Barcelona this Saturday.
The 27-year-old former Levante player believes the Andalusians must show Barca the respect they deserve but intends to help his side maintain an unbeaten run at the Sanchez Pizjuan that has lasted over 12 months.
“We know if we play well and do things correctly we are capable of beating anyone,” Iborra told Sevilla’s radio station.
“The current leaders are coming to visit us and they are a team we respect, as we do all others, and we know it’s going to be difficult to win.
“But don’t forget that we are at home, in front of our own supporters, which makes it an extra player for us and we’ll make it tough for them.
“I’m sure we are going to leave everything out on the pitch and make the fans proud of us. I think this will be a game to enjoy, to see what level we are at and try to beat one of the greats.
“We want to maintain our unbeaten record because it’s important to achieve our ambitions and objectives.”
In addition, Iborra was asked about the recent contributions of Jose Antonio Reyes and Kevin Gameiro to the side.
“Jose has that knack of doing anything he wants. He’s different and very important to the team, both on and off the field, and is a benchmark for the rest of us, one of the captains. When you need him he is there.
“Against Levante on Tuesday, Kevin scored a goal and provided an assist. Thus, the work is there and it pays off. In this team everybody works.
“We are playing well and enjoying what we do. That’s the main thing. To have the amount of points we have and not be in a Champions League place tells you the level is very high.
“However, we’ll continue fighting with the character we possess. Together with the unity of our fans I believe we have the strength to be up there,” he added.
