Barcelona signing Jordi Alba admits he owes his career to former Valencia coach Unai Emery.

It was Emery who converted Alba into a left-back.

The youngster told Barca's website: "Emery had a lot to do with the decision. It gave me the chance to go to the European Championship and to come back to Barça as a full back or winger. It's changed me a lot. A year ago, I'd never have imagined I'd go to the European Championship as a full back.

"The first time was against Werder Bremen. I came on as sub. At half time, Emery said I'd be left back. I'd never played in that position, but it meant I started playing more and more, and now I like it a lot."