Iniesta '100%' confident of Milan comeback

05-Mar-2013 3:00:00 AM

The 28-year-old says he is fully convinced Barcelona can make amends for their Milan defeat from the first leg, and claims to be using the media's criticism as a motivational tool

Barcelona playmaker Andres Iniesta says he is supremely confident the Blaugrana can overhaul the two-goal deficit inflicted by AC Milan at San Siro a fortnight ago.

The Catalan giants welcome the Rossoneri to Camp Nou next Tuesday and, despite trailing 2-0 on aggregate, the World Cup winner believes Barcelona boast enough quality to turn the tie around.

"I would put my hand in the fire for the team, I am confident that we can do it. It was not a good result, but I am 100 per cent convinced that we can turn it around," he told reporters at a corporate event.

"We have to do well and go out as though it's a final. For us it's a final where we need to get a good result to come out alive."

The 28-year-old also responded to the criticism the team have faced in recent weeks following the Milan defeat in addition to two Clasicos, but believes the team can draw on the comments of their detractors to inspire them to stronger performances for the remainder of the season.

"We deserve more respect. What's more, in La Liga, we are in an unbeatable position. I wish it was always this way," he added.

"We are concerned because we haven't been good, but the concern should make us stronger and more optimistic to keep doing well."