Setien praises Ansu and Riqui Puig for Athletic Club cameos

Barcelona needed a late goal from Ivan Rakitic to see off Athletic Club on Tuesday and return to the top of the table for at least 24 hours, when Real Madrid host Mallorca. 

After the game, coach Quique Setien spoke about a poor first half but an improved second period and praised the impact of youngster Ansu Fati and Riqui Puig, who came off the bench. 

"In the first half we weren't precise with the ball, we lost it a lot," Setien said. "We have not found that fluidity that we usually have in games. In the second half, we were much better.

Ansu and Riqui gave us a little more dynamism, helped us move forward and have longer spells of possession. I am happy with the second half but the first can be improved."

Asked if they could now have bigger roles, Setien added: "It's true that sometimes you can have doubts about the contribution of these kids in important games we have a the moment. But they are doing things well and will have chances to play more minutes

"That's how you win a place in the team. (And having more options) permits players to rest or share minutes more and keep everyone fresher."