Valdes: League Title Is Still Possible

Madrid beat their city neighbours Atlético 2-0 on Sunday in a game where many in the Barcelona camp were hoping their rivals would drop points.

"Much was expected from that local game... we had hopes, but it is necessary to continue fighting for each match, because there are many left," Valdes told Marca.

Although he feels that he and his team-mates must be realistic when considering their title hopes, Valdes still believes there are enough games left in the season for them to have a shot at it.

"There is a big distance in points, but also many games to dispute. We will both have difficult games, but it is necessary to be realistic and just take all the points we can. I know that they are difficult rivals but it is still possible to win the league."

Valdes does not believe that Barcelona have changed their philosophy with their good results in recent weeks, simply that things are going better on the pitch than they did in the run-up to the Christmas break.

"We always look to get the result first. In the end they are what wins you the titles. We have found a positive dynamic and are getting the results, but there is no change in philosophy. The difference is that the results have changed."

The discussion invariably turned to Ronaldinho as it does whenever a Barça player is interviewed in the Spanish press and Valdes believes that more respect should be shown to the Brazilian forward.

"Too many things are said about [Ronaldinho]; it is necessary to have respect for what he has given and will continue to give to the club."

Valdes was then asked about his Madrid counterpart Iker Casillas, who has been on excellent form so far this season.

"The praise is deserved; his form is very good because he is a determined player, but he is certainly not unique in this."

Finally, the talk turned to Valdes' new understudy José Manuel Pinto, who was brought in on loan from Celta Vigo at the end of last week.

"He has integrated himself very well in the team, has much quality and tries to help out with everything," he concluded.