Messi wouldn't be this good without Iniesta & Xavi, says Trashorras

Messi wouldn't be this good without Iniesta & Xavi, says Rayo Vallecano's Trashorras

Oct 27, 2012 12:25:00 PM

The former Barca forward has hailed the importance of the Spain internationals, and is looking forward to Saturday's match against the Catalans

Rayo Vallecano attacker Roberto Trashorras believes that Lionel Messi would not be at the same level he is now if it was not for the support of Barcelona team-mates Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

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Messi is seen by many as the best player around, but Trashorras, who came through the ranks of the Barca youth academy, feels his success is largely down to Spain's international duo at the Catalan powerhouse.

"Without Xavi and Iniesta, Messi would not be the player that he is now," Trashorras was quoted as saying by Ser Esports.

The 31-year-old is eagerly anticipating Saturday's game against his former team, and is in particular looking forward to seeing Iniesta and Victor Valdes.

"It is always special to play against guys with whom you have played with in your younger years.

"I still have a good relationship with Victor Valdes and Iniesta."

Trashorras left Barcelona for Real Madrid in 2003, and also wore the jerseys of Numancia, Las Palmas and Celta Vigo before eventually joining Rayo in 2011.