Xavi: Size doesn´t matter

Barcelona midfielder Xavi believes talent is more important for becoming a successful player than a strong physique.

The Spain international is one of the smallest footballers around in Europe at just 1.70 metres, but has developed into one of the best players in the world, and was recently nominated for the FIFA Ballon d’Or for a third consecutive season.

And the Barcelona playmaker said he did no believes his small stature had held him back in his career.

“Talent is the decisive factor in football, much more than physical presence. I’m convinced that it’s technical quality that makes the difference,” Xavi told Sport.

“Back in 2002-03, people told me that I wasn’t suited to play in the centre of the pitch as you needed to be physically strong. I have shown you don’t need you be a physical player to be a top midfielder.”

The 31-year-old faces competition from team-mate Lionel Messi and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for the 2011 FIFA Ballon d’Or.