Increased security presence for Barça players in England

Barcelona have taken their stay at St. George's Park very seriously since their arrival on Monday and the safety of the players has been of paramount importance.

Two members of security make up the first hurdle to gain entry to the complex that is situated near Burton-upon-Trent, with several stewards just 300 meters ahead controlling the movements of people wishing to park their cars outside the main building.

Within the hotel there's a much more relaxed feeling but when you approach the building that is currently housing the Barça stars, a swarm of people in yellow bibs are visibly present and contact with the players is made practically impossible.

The Blaugrana have brought with them three members of security headed by Rafa Soldado, who must be acknowledged for their diligence and efficiency for protecting the well-being of everyone at all times.

But the bulk of the security personnel has been hired by the hotel on site who leave little room for movement of the people present at St. George's Park. So much so that one feels watched by many faces when leaving the press area to where the team trains.

In any case - despite the safety measures - gestures made by the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Arda Turan have been worthy of praise, with the Blaugrana players giving autographs and taking pictures with fans who have waited in the rain to meet their heroes.