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#2 Jordi Alba is vital for Barcelona on the pitch
Normally the full-backs in a side are not the stars, they are just good role-players who carry out their job well. The attackers and the midfielders take the plaudits more often than not. But Barcelona's left-back is one of the crucial players for the team, and it was visible against Valencia.
Sergi Roberto started the game at left-back, as Valverde opted to rest Alba. Roberto made a scant impact, as he could not settle into an unfamiliar role. Alba came on for him at half-time and made an instant impact. He provided the width consistently in attack providing passing options to the likes of Philippe Coutinho, Luis Suarez, and Lionel Messi.
He is an elite player defensively as well, which makes him arguably the best two-way full-back in the world. Alba is a crucial player for Valverde, especially since the attackers don't provide the natural width. Also, there is no clear backup for him in the squad.
