Spain

Valencia Midfielder Ever Banega Hoping For World Cup Place

He knows he still has a lot to learn...

Oct 17, 2009 8:47:36 AM

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Ever Banega, Valencia (MARCA)

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Valencia midfielder Ever Banega has insisted that he is mature enough as a player to force his way into Argentina's World Cup squad and says he needs to make use of this period as he is playing his best football.

The 21-year-old has been a revelation for Los Che so far this season after an indifferent start to his time in Spanish football and says he feels more mature as a footballer these days.

"Two years ago I came here and I did not do so well, but I'm playing my best football and I have to make use it. I'm a kid and I have much to learn," he said in an interview with El Pais.

"I'm stronger than it appears. We had a good preseason and my head is centred. I am more mature and hopefully will get the opportunity [with the national team]."

Banega also said ahead of Saturday's game with Barcelona that Valencia need to focus on playing their game and should not worry about stopping Xavi but added that Barca has players that are on another level.

"All teams would like to put a man marking Xavi but we are Valencia and we can play as equals to Barcelona. Xavi and [Lionel] Messi are a level above, but [Andres] Iniesta is injured."

Paul Madden, Goal.com