Barcelona Thomas Vermaelen: ‘People think being a Barcelona defender is easy’ The Belgian has overcome an injury nightmare to shine at Barça. It was also confirmation that Vermaelen, described in one report as “immaculate”, could play a bit – maybe confirmation that he could play at all. When Vermaelen joined Barcelona in 2014 the sporting director, Andoni Zubizarreta, said he would be ready “immediately” but from the training ground the word was different. Vermaelen does not know whether he will start at Stamford Bridge and admits that by kick-off they may not be up. “They know I play football and they’re excited to see me on TV but they’re too young.

Source: The Guardian February 16, 2018 12:05 UTC