Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists Victor Valdes is the best goalkeeper in the world. Valdes continues to be ignored by Vicente del Bosque for Spain, but has been outstanding at times for Barca this season.

"He should be in the national team," said Laporta. "I have no doubt about that. I would be delighted for him because he deserves it. Victor is better than (Iker) Casillas.

"Clearly he has what it takes and shows this every day, in every game, making crucial stops that saved us many points.

"Also, he has an added quality because it is not the same being a Barca goalkeeper than elsewhere because we play with a very advanced defensive line."