Koeman: If we become more effective we're title candidates

Ronald Koeman was more than satisfied after Barca's win over Levante. "We improved a lot during the game where in the second half we played better, created more chances, although it was hard for us to go ahead on the scoreboard. In the end it was a hard-fought, well-earned victory."

The coach explained his plan: "We knew we would face an opponent who would press us high up and Leo (Messi)'s positioning was so we could have an extra centre midfielder."

Barca defended well at the end under pressure. "They took more risks and we had to defend this result. If we have to finish with an extra defender on the pitch (Umtiti) then you have to do it. That's always been like that."

Ahead of the Real Sociedad clash, Koeman said: "This win gives us a lot of confidence for Wednesday."

He didn't want to speak of the Riqui Puig 'leaker' controversy.

"I won't speak about a non sporting topic, I know there are things in the media but I don't want to talk about it. It's something between the dressing room and the technical staff and nothing else."

CANDIDATES

Koeman believes his team can go on and lift the title. "Barcelona are candidates to win the league, there's a long way to go and we have to get more confidence in our game and improve our effectiveness in front of goal.

"It's a question of confidence (finishing better). If the ball goes in for you as a striker you have more confidence in the next game. With these three points we can show on Wednesday that we can play better."