Deulofeu still needs to improve a lot, says Vilanova

Nov 28, 2012 7:35:00 AM

The promising winger has impressed with the reserves in the opening weeks of the 2012-13 campaign, but the Blaugrana coach has insisted he is not ready just yet

Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova feels that promising youngster Gerard Deulofeu has a bright future ahead of him, but stressed that the attacker still has steps to make before he is ready for regular first team football.

The 18-year-old has been in fine form for Barcelona B so far this season, and is one of five reserve players picked for Wednesday's Copa del Rey match at home against Alaves.

"He is a player with a lot to offer, but he still needs to improve a lot before he can form part of the Barca first team," Vilanova stated at a press conference.

"We have to see how Gerard adapts to games like these. We should not forget that he is still very, very young."

Deulofeu made his official first team debut against Mallorca in October 2011, and is regarded as one of the most promising youngsters to have come through La Masia in recent years.

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