Villa wants more playing time

David Villa is desperate to get more playing time at Barcelona but admits he faces stiff competition for a place in the starting XI.

The 30-year-old featured from the start in Tuesday’s 3-0 Copa del Rey win over Alaves – and netted once to take his season tally to five – even though he has mainly been used as a substitute so far this term.

“Like any footballer, I want to play as much as possible,” Villa told the official Barcelona website.

“I play at the best club in the world, though, and the competition to get playing time is very fierce. We play a lot of games and there are a lot of competitions. I’m at the coach’s disposition. There’s another game on Saturday.

“I’m pleased with my performance against Alaves. I’m returning to form and that’s really good for me, I feel good on the pitch.”

Barcelona resume La Liga action on Saturday when they host Celta Vigo.