Arsenal's Johan Djourou says his team is not intimidated by Barcelona ace Lionel for their champions league round-of-16 clash in London tonight
Arsenal's Johan Djourou says his team is not intimidated by Barcelona ace Lionel for their champions league round-of-16 clash in London tonightArsenal defender Johan Djourou refuses to be intimidated by the reputation of Lionel Messi in tonight's Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium.
Messi struck four goals when the rivals met in the second leg of the quarter-finals last year and is viewed as the world's best player.
But Djourou is ready to test himself against the Argentina playmaker and insists Barcelona have too much talent to concentrate on one individual.
"You don't get scared, if I was scared I wouldn't be playing," said Djourou.
"Messi is a great player, he has shown that across the world. But, it's not only about him, there are Xavi and Andres Iniesta as well.
"Every game is a big game, I don't see it as bigger because it is Barcelona.
"They are the best team in the world but for me and the team it is a normal game. We want to be focussed and go through," he added.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger warned Barcelona that Arsenal are desperate to prove the divide between themselves and the greatest team in the world has vanished.
"We don't deny the quality of Barcelona, but what is important for us is that we have a good opportunity to show who we are now," he said.
"Not only that, we also want to show Barcelona we are capable of knocking them out.
"We have the belief and a strong togetherness to show we are a different team now.
"In the first half of the home game last year we were spectators a little bit and were a bit inhibited. I believe that confidence-wise and mentally we are a completely different team today," he added.
