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Barcelona chief Deco denies Xavi claims of selecting team for Antwerp shock

Barcelona chief Deco has denied claims he had a say on last night's team selection for their Champions League defeat at Antwerp.

Barca coach Xavi had claimed before the game that the team was selected with input from Deco and president Joan Laporta.

But the Portuguese insisted: "The calls are subjects of the mister, we have not agreed anything. It is a topic that we have all talked about on a matter of management, flights and effort.

"There are a number of things that have to be conjured. We are all fine, no need to worry."

In the preview of the game, Xavi stated otherwise, saying that the change in the selection had been agreed: "We have spoken about the team, the president, Deco and the club. We are not going in different ways. Talking to the players too.

"Changing the itinerary and making one more night changes a lot. I will see how everyone is. We have not trained yet. The idea is to make changes and give players with muscle fatigue rest. To those who have minutes on their legs, like Ronald Araujo, Robert Lewandowski or Ilkay Gündogan."

In the case of Leandowski, this was not fulfilled, because he was a starter.

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