Barcelona sports chief Txiki Begiristain insists the club are right behind Ronaldinho after he missed yesterday's defeat of Sevilla complaining of injury.

"It is necessary to help Ronaldinho and to give him the support that he needs," said Begiristain. "He must recover the magic; he is human and, like everyone, he has high moments and others not so high, but it is necessary to be comprehensive because he has been very generous with the Barcelonismo."

Barca assistant coach Johan Neeskens also urged fans to back the Brazilian.

"Ronaldinho deserves more respect, we cannot forget what he has done for this club. He is the greatest and continues being so."