Shortly after the last workout of the week, Juande Ramos analyzed the condition of the team heading into its match against Valladolid.

How are the recoveries of those injured coming along?
Marcelo will not play and everyone else is fit. Codina, Parejo and Marcelo are off the squad list for medical reasons.

Guti ought to be thanked for clarifying all the recent speculation.
I don’t have a problem with Guti. There has been a lot of spin on recent news, but as he said, we have a cordial relationship.

May Lass play as a right-back with Sergio Ramos out this weekend?
I still haven’t decided. I remember the job he did against Simao when we played against Atletico. I’ll have to take a look at the situation because each opponent is different.

There had been good vibes all week in relation to Barcelona until Pique came along and said what he said.
It has happened before but I pay no attention. I am responsible only for what I say, not the opinions of others. Freedom of expression is allowed.

Are you worried by the fact the Raul hasn’t scored in recent matches?
I look at the team as a whole and am very pleased with what I see. We have been playing well. I want the team to work just as it has been.

Is it frustrating to see your streak marred by the fact that Barcelona play so well?
No. Real Madrid’s streak has taken a back seat because Barcelona are doing so well. We must force Bacelona to win all their matches. We are two different teams with very different characteristics.

Do Barcelona have any defects or are they a perfect team?
There is no perfect team and Barcelona certainly isn’t one. They are very good in many areas, but they have defects like every team does. They are on the right track to win titles.

Your contract stipulates that you will continue as head coach if you win La Liga, but this week your name came up regardless of whether you win or not. How does that make you feel?
There will be elections soon and rumors will be constant, so we must get used to them. We must continue working hard to be able to make a proper assessment at season’s end and when there is a new president.

The players must also be restless…
They are professionals and are used to rumors. I don’t think it will affect their work.