Xavi extols Barça work ethic

The superlatives have been flowing for FC Barcelona almost all season, not least in the aftermath of their 4-0 defeat of FC Bayern München in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final.

Goals galore
Not for the first time this term, Josep Guardiola's team scored four times in the first half, producing a mesmeric display of football to all but secure their place in the last four. The Azulgrana have scored four, six, five and two goals in their last four home matches and registered five or more goals on nine occasions in what could be a stellar campaign for the Catalan club.

Dictated play
To many an observer, the ease at which Barça scythe through the opposition would appear to come naturally, Lionel Messi and Co effortlessly combining to often devastating effect. Not so says Xavi Hernández, keen to emphasise the work ethic that prevails at the Camp Nou. "We've dictated the rhythm with our possession, our combinations and the work we've put in," said Xavi, 29. "It's not a secret that when the whole team works hard, the talent will show itself."

World's best
Talent is what Messi has in abundance, and Xavi is quick to pay homage to Barça's No10. "Every time we see Messi he shows something new, something better," he added of the Argentinian, top scorer in the UEFA Champions League with eight goals. "For us it is very important to have him in the team. He is working very hard and he has an extraordinary talent. Right now, he is the best player in the world."

Enjoyment
Such was Barcelona's dominance against Bayern that Xavi thought the hosts "could have scored more". Nevertheless, the Spanish international – who has played over 300 Liga matches for the club – was more than delighted to have gained a commanding first-leg lead ahead of the return at the Fußball Arena München on Tuesday. "We are very happy and pleased with the game," he said. "We enjoyed ourselves and I believe this also applies to the fans that came to support us. We took a giant step towards the semi-finals."