No point in physical Chelsea battle: Guardiola

Barcelona supporters need not worry over their side becoming embroiled in a physical battle with Chelsea in their Champions League semi-final second leg match, as coach Josep Guardiola realises it could cost his side a place in the final in Rome.

Barca players have been complaining of Chelsea’s hard tactics ever since last week’s goalless draw at the Nou Camp, but they showed exactly what can happen if they are given room to roam as they breezed past Spanish rivals Real Madrid 6-2 at the Bernabeu last weekend.

That result in itself show that Chelsea possibly went about their game plan correctly in the first-leg, but it is Guardiola who aims to get the upper hand this time around.

“If we try to challenge Chelsea’s physical style it will play into their hands,” he said.

“We won’t avoid confrontation, but we know that is one of their big strengths and we need to use our own style of play if we are to get through.

“I only know one way of playing, I will attack and try to score. I do not waste one second thinking of what Hiddink is saying about his set-up. I have to worry about our state of mind and how we go into the game.”

Forward Thierry Henry is rated as “doubtful” for this second-leg encounter, but took part in training at Chelsea on Tuesday and showed no signs of discomfort.

His inclusion in the session seems to suggest he will start, and Guardiola has warned his players they must match Chelsea in every department if they are to break up the English domination of the final stages of this competition.

“Whoever makes it through deserves to be in Rome,” he said. “It will not be down to refereeing decisions, it is down to the team who wants it most.

“I hope it is not two English sides in the final, but if it is then that is because they both deserve to be there.

“I’m convinced my side will turn up at their best for this game, and the Real Madrid result will have had a positive influence on us.”

Brazilian Sylvinho, 35, will feature at full-back for Barcelona, who have trouble at the back due to missing pair Carles Puyol and Rafa Marquez. Puyol is suspended, while Marquez is injured, and Gerard Pique and Eric Abidal are set to step in for them.

Former Arsenal player Sylvinho is confident the Spaniards can cope without the influential duo.

“Whoever plays, we are all ready,” he said. “We know that changes will be made in defence but we are all focused and together as a unit. It is up to Guardiola to solve the problem, and we know it will be tough, but we can get through.”