Valverde: Sergi Roberto is a blessing for Barcelona
The coach celebrated the right-back's new contract
Valverde said he's one of the best full-back's in the world
Ernesto Valverde made it clear in his press conference on Friday that Sergi Roberto is one of the key players in his Barcelona side. The coach celebrated the full-back's new contract and lavished him with praise.
"Sergi Roberto is a player who has adapted well to right-back, he's player who can bring the game forward, can play wide, can play in the middle (...) He knows the position perfectly," Valverde said.
"He's a player who brought up at Barca, he has smart positional play and important role within the team.
"I would highlight his huge will, wich has a lot to do with [his success]. Look at his history since he has been with the first team: He didn't come straight in. He had to work his way in graudally and has reached a high level. It's a blessing to have him."
Valverde was also asked if he should go to the World Cup. He didn't want to do Julen Lopetegui's job for him but labelled Sergi Roberto one of the world's best right-backs.
"I don't like to meddle in another coach's work, I wouldn't like them to meddle in mine," he added. "We have to be respectful to other people, in this case the national team coach.
"If you ask me how well Sergi Roberto is playing, or to compare him to any full-back in the world, I would say he's the best and I wouldn't change him. Regardless of if he goes to the World Cup or not, he's the best for me."
