Pique has inside knowledge

Published: 23 May 2009 - 17:53:35

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Barcelona defender Gerard Pique believes he has the inside track on how to stop Manchester United. The Spaniard, who moved back to his Catalan roots last summer, spent four years at Old Trafford as he honed his skills under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson. As a result, the 22-year-old feels there is nothing he does not know about the tactical approach often adopted by the Premier League champions. Ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Champions League final against the Red Devils, Pique is planning to put that knowledge to good use by helping his current employers to European glory. "I know most of the players inside-out because I have spent hours and hours with them in training," he said. "I have passed on some of that knowledge to the coach (Pep Guardiola) and my team-mates and I'm sure it will help. "I think I know all (Cristiano) Ronaldo's tricks by now - he's a great player and he can hurt you, but I've spent a lot of time playing with him and against him in training, and I believe we can stop him." Pique missed out on a place in United's matchday squad for their 2008 success over Chelsea, but admits he is determined to play a key role this time around. Honour"It was great to be there last year, but I wasn't involved and didn't play much in my time at United," he said. "This year is different because I've been a Barca fan all my life and hopefully I will be playing - it will mean so much to be out there defending the badge of the club I have supported all my life." Pique, who claims to have learnt a lot from his time under Ferguson's wing, also believes that Guardiola has all the credentials required to outwit his United counterparts. "Guardiola is different - he is more hands-on during the week and is always close to the players," he added, "He has been there and done it in a Barca shirt, and is a symbol of this club - he has Barcelona's philosophy in his blood and all of the players love him. "He has got us playing wonderful football and what we have achieved so far has been incredible, especially when you consider it's only his first season. "He is the perfect modern coach."