'We are here to help Vilanova' - Alves

24 Dec 2012 17:03:00

The Barcelona defender has said that football is not as important as the stricken coach's health, and that every win they manage in La Liga is dedicated to the 44-year-old

Dani Alves has said that every member of the Barcelona team is there to help Tito Vilanova through his battle with cancer.

The Blaugrana boss recently suffered the relapse of the disease, which kept him from taking his place on the bench for part of last season, and subsequently underwent surgery to remove the tumour.

"We are here to help him be," the Brazilian told O Estado de Sao Paulo.

"That's why every victory is dedicated to him. Football comes second now, because he is struggling for his life."

Vilanova had led Barca to their best-ever start to a Liga season, and although they hold a 16-point lead over reigning champions Real Madrid, Alves is adamant that the title isn't decided.

"The gap is more than considerable," he continued.

"But we should remain grounded as we still have many games left and the championship is far from over. I'm not surprised by our results so far.

"We are reaping the fruits of our labour. We worked hard, and the results are following."

The former Sevilla man has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou in recent weeks, but is adamant that he has no intention of leaving.

"Those are interventions made to destabilise us. I feel good and I want to stay."

Barcelona get back to action after the winter hiatus by entertaining Espanyol on January 5.