Vilanova expecting stern Levante test

Nov 24, 2012 6:00:00 PM

The Barcelona coach has spoken of the threat posed by Granotes, while talking about a life changing operation he had a year ago

Tito Vilanova is expecting a tough examination when his side take on Levante on Sunday.

The 44-year-old has noted Granotes' fine start to the campaign, which sees them sat in fourth spot ahead of Sunday's clash and the Barcelona coach is well aware of their attacking threat.

"They always have a good goalscorer and a good playmaker like [Jose] Barkero. They have won all of their home games apart from when they played Atletico and [Real] Madrid," he told reporters.

"Is this our hardest game out of the remaining 2012 fixtures? All are difficult; we have to go away to Betis, we play Atletico Madrid at home and we also have to play Athletic Bilbao."

Vilanova also turned his attentions to a more sobering aspect of his life and reflected on a life changing operation he underwent a year ago to remove a tumour from his one of his salivary glands.

"Thursday marks a year since my operation and the truth is it could happen to anyone, no matter how well they look after themselves," he added.

"It changed my life. The only advice I can give to anyone going through it is to be strong and take plenty of rest, more than I did."

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!