Barcelona Have To Respect Opponents

Dundee United are in for a challenge this evening, as Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard has decided to take the friendly match at Tannadice more seriously.

Last month, Rijkaard referred to the friendly as just "a game, that is all."

He also told the Scotsman - "It's about getting back into the rhythm again, and for that you need games. To be honest, I am not really thinking about winning or losing."

However, after a whole week of constant reminders from the Scottish press about Dundee United`s 100% record over the Catalan club, Rijkaard`s decided to take a more professional approach to the match.

"It is a wonderful record United have against Barcelona," admitted the Barcelona manager to the Scotsman.

"A lot of people will say that Barcelona are a strong side, which we are, because we have lots of big names in the squad who are known all over the world."

"I am sure it was the same the last four times Dundee United played them."

"It shows that you can't win a game on paper; you can't win it with names - you have to respect opponents."

"You never know what can happen in football - there are always surprises."

"We have to keep focused and make sure that we are not surprised in this match."

"We hope it will be a good game and that the fans enjoy it.'