Valverde talks Messi, Dembele and Todibo ahead of Huesca

The latest from the Barcelona boss

Ernesto Valverde faced the press on Friday ahead of Saturday’s La Liga clash against bottom side Huesca.

The Barcelona boss talked about the possibility of resting some players, Lionel Messi’s injury and also defender Jean-Clair Todibo and Samuel Umtiti.

Here are the best bits:

Valverde on Messi

It is possible that Messi will rest, the blow was strong, as if a train runs over you. I spoke with him and it is a possibility.

Valverde on Suarez

He’s fine, but at the end of the matches there are always problems that then appear, but we see him well, it was a very intense game, it’s normal.

Valverde on Dembele

Tomorrow is important for Dembele, not in terms of being important for the Manchester United game. We need to really focus on getting the three points we need. I know focus can turn to games like ones at Old Trafford but we have to maintain our mental focus on the next game.

Valverde on Todibo

I see Todibo as more of a central defender, than a defensive midfielder.He hasn’t played for a long time, so we will see if he gets the chance to play.

Valverde on rotation

Yes, there will be changes tomorrow. The schedule is packed, and we can’t forget we need 10 points to become champions.

We have to win three matches, and draw another. The reason for the changes is to keep everyone competitive. Anyone could be rotated.

Valverde on Huesca

Huesca know how important wins are in the home stretch and they look good. They have good players who generate plenty of scoring chances.

Valverde on Umtiti

Umtiti is coming off the back of a long lay off, and the defence has been playing great in the meantime. He must work to get his place back and I see him trying to do so, and contributing a lot.