Ronaldinho spurred by jibes

Ronaldinho revealed he used the criticism he received last week about his weight as a motivational tool for Sunday night’s Primera Liga clash with Athletic Bilbao.

The Brazilian playmaker hit the headlines after he was photographed following last Wednesday’s Champions League defeat to Liverpool apparently looking overweight.

However, the 26-year-old insists he is happy with his fitness after inspiring Barca to a 3-0 win over Athletic.

Ronaldinho brilliantly set up the returning Samuel Eto’o up for his goal, before twice hitting the woodwork himself in the second half and generally running the Athletic defence ragged as Barca moved two points clear at the summit.

“I am very happy with the win, the recovery of Eto’o and the good play of the team. I only lacked a goal. The work has been good and now we must continue forward,” said Ronaldinho, who shrugged off the jibes about his weight.

“Always whenever I finish a game I exchange my shirt with another player. This week there have been some photos insinuating I am fat, but I am well and I have no problem removing my shirt.

“As well as that, all that they have talked about this week has served as a motivation for me to play better.”

Aside from seeing two of his efforts strike the crossbar, Ronaldinho also brought a number of brilliant saves out of overworked Athletic goalkeeper Daniel Aranzubia as the former FIFA World Player of the Year desperately tried to get on the scoresheet.

“I have never entered the field of play thinking that I will score. My objective is to create good chances for my team-mates and enjoy myself,” he said.

“(Against Athletic), however, it was the anniversary of my son and I wanted to score to have a special celebration.”

Aside from seeing his side bounce back from successive 2-1 defeats to Valencia and Liverpool, Ronaldinho was also delighted to see strike partner Eto’o back in the team.

The Cameroon international missed the last two games to continue his fight for full fitness, having only recently returned following four months out with a serious knee injury.

“The return of Eto’o has been very important for the team,” Ronaldinho said.

“He is a reference in attack for us. He and I know each other very well and we only have to look to know what play we want to do.

“It is very important that he is totally recovered.”