Jeremy Mathieu: "I wanted to play against Zlatan Ibrahimovic"
Jeremy Mathieu did not want to speak about favourites in the build up to Paris Saint-Germain against Barcelona, but of picking up three points.
The Barcelona defender, who returns to France as a member of the national team, highlighted the quality of the players that will replace PSG's various injured players.
IBRA'S ABSENCE
Mathieu lamented the fact that Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the star of PSG, will not be able to play on Tuesday.
"I'm sorry that it couldn't be for Ibrahimovic," he said.
"I wanted to play against him because he is a really strong player, but he also has a different style.
"It's true that he has a great influence on the team because he can make the difference in matches.
"Without him, it makes thing a little more difficult for them, but, nevertheless, they will continue to play their game."
Thiago Silva is among the other players missing for the French champions, but Mathieu insisted the injuries don't matter to much.
"It is an important game because PSG have a lot of players out, but they have other players for this game who are good too: Cavani, Lucas, Pastore...
"They are internationals of a really high level, world class even, and they will give their all to win this match.
"I do not know if we are favourites, but we are here to get three points."
HIS PERFORMANCES
The French defender was prudent when asked about his rapid adaption to life at Barcelona.
"I try to to the best possible to help the team and I just play like I did in Valencia," he explained.
"It is the same style and I am happy that people have changed their view of my style and my play a little bit."
One of the challenges facing Barça is to continue their run of not conceding a goal.
Mathieu admitted that it is one of the ingredients for winning, but not the only one.
"Keeping a zero next to our opponent's name is a challenge for the defence, but the the first line of defence is attack," he claimed.
"When everyone does their work it is easy for us.
"It's a difficult game for us, but we will try to keep a clean sheet again."
MESSI AND NEYMAR
The partnership between Lionel Messi and Neymar is in fashion and their goals and talent are factors which will scare PSG.
In respect of the duo, Mathieu said: "Messi and Neymar function really well together.
"Last season Neymar was still adapting to football in Europe, but now he is playing really well and they are forming one of the best partnerships in the world.
"Messi is really pleasant. I thought he wouldn't speak to the players who were not on his level, but that is not the case.
"Yes, he's scored less goals recently, but he has more influence on the team and he can surprise at any moment."
