Since writing this Barca have gone to Bayer Leverkusen and got the job done and then were inspired in smashing Valencia at home, and that kind of strengthens my point.

The Valencia game was an interesting one because although the three points were irrelevant almost, the win and the performance itself were critical. They definitely have the ability to flick a switch and destroy teams, and it seemed as though Pep Guardiola felt he had to prove some things with that performance.

It also helps when Messi has a good day though…

I didn’t actually see the Osasuna game but had a feeling a slip up was round the corner. As you mention Barca are excellent in the big games but have struggled for consistency this season against some of the so called ‘lesser’ teams in La Liga. Personally I feel much of this is simply down to tiredness, both mentally and physically but I really hope they can retain the Champions League this season.

To some extent James is right, there is section of football fans, which dislike Barcelona over the UNICEF saga. For me, I’m not really interested, clearly it immoral and understand that, but I am a football fan and I’m too bothered who owns Man United or what Sepp Blatter says. As a football fan i can only fully appreciate what i see on the football field, as for football politics we probably only recieve 50% of the true events, which doesn’t leave the humble fan in a positon to give a balanced opinion…..Trailed off a bit, back to James’ point. I get the impression that a larger section of football fans either aren’t interested or aren’t aware of the politics and mindlessly accuse all Barcelona players of cheating (only in more colourful terms).

My observations of the Real Madrid vs Barcelona games in recent seasons are they are isolated events in La Liga football. Mourinho’s antics are usually isolataed to those game’s (e.g. the poke in the eye, and no one can win at the Nou Camp comment). Players make the referee’s job a complete nightmare by exaggerating, accusing opposing players to get them booked and mass brawls (both sets of players are equally to blame). El Classico isn’t a classy affair, it brings out the worst in both teams and sets of fans who often make rash comments in the heat of the moment (anything goes on Derby Day).

Away from El Classico Barcelona do seem well respected, especially Iniesta who gets an ovation at every away ground except the Bernabeu where they convenienlty forget his exploits for the national team. As an Everton fan, comparing my team to a great side like Barcelona I can’t help but admire them. The keeper and defenders are confident balls players, they defend from the front, there movement off the ball is outstanding and the individual brilliance of their forward players is evident to all those who…..watch Everton. Basically, Barcelona are no Saints but they play an enthralling brand of football which should appreciated by football fans while they have the opportunity to watch them.

All I’m bothered about is them not stealing Keith Hill from Barnsley to be honest.

One of my best mates is a massive Leeds fan and is in despair about what Mr Bates is doing to his club. The sale of Howson I think was the final straw for many supporters and if they were to consider selling Snodgrass in the summer it could all get quite nasty.

His comments about Sven applying a couple of days ago seemed utterly ridiculous and I really hope the club can sort itself soon. Hopefully the loan signing of Fabien Delph can help the club push towards a playoff place.

You can’t really plan for the bad weather and I have my doubts as to whether stadium upgrades can really help avoid such postponements.

I should also mention that Germany start at the beginning of august and the league only has 18 teams, which is why they can have a 5-week break and finish at around the same time as other leagues. I’m not sure they have anywhere near as many midweek rounds too.