Tito Vilanova praised David Villa’s performance in the Cup and remarked that he continues to improve his fitness at Barcelona.
The striker is returning from a long injury lay-off and last night completed a first 90 minutes for Barca this season, netting twice in their Round of 32 second leg Copa del Rey win over Alaves.
“I think David has been good, he has scored twice and has completed 90 minutes. There have been games he has been playing regularly and every day I see him getting better,” reflected Vilanova after the game.
“It helps him to score. Villa had a complicated injury and he has worked extensively with the medical staff to return. His goals will help him much.
“Every day I see him getting better. We will try to give him every minute possible.”
Barca ran out 3-1 winners on the night and 6-1 on aggregate to progress to the Last 16, but Vilanova made clear that it wasn’t a procession.
“They played different to how they have appeared regularly this season and we had to make changes. They had two players playing in the playmaker position and we could catch them more out on the wings.
“They played like they wanted to. These are not easy games, even if people think otherwise. With 50,000 people watching they deserved full attention.
“We give each competition the same importance. The team is there to play in all three competitions. These past few years we have managed to twice win it and reach a final.”
Vilanova also focused on a few of the other players who appeared in the game, including Alex Song, who he revealed will be learning another new position for the team.
“He’s played very good games for us. He’s a player that understands our tactical system. We’ve tried to teach him to play in two different positions and maybe that’s confused things a bit.
“We’ll try to make him focus on the holding midfielder position but he’ll also learn how to play as a full-back. He’s very able and willing.”
