Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova insists he believes in fullback Daniel Alves.

The Brazil fullback surprised management last week by hitting out at a 'lack of support' when transfer speculation was at its height earlier this summer.

"We never considered losing Alves," insisted Vilanova. "It was not up for discussion inside the club.

"He is the best fullback in the world, one of the best signings of Barcelona in recent times and one of the players who has the most impact on team play."