Edmílson targets sixth success

Edmílson believes he still has an important role to play at FC Barcelona as the Brazilian international targets a sixth consecutive league title.

Key member
The 30-year-old has not enjoyed as much playing time this season in his favoured defensive midfield position, but is confident of helping Frank Rijkaard's team as they challenge for the Spanish championship in their remaining eleven games of the campaign. "At Barça, from the start, I have felt like an important player for the coach and for my team-mates," he said. Barcelona entertain RC Deportivo La Coruña on Saturday, seeking to find breathing space at the top of the Primera División. The title-holders lead on goal difference from Sevilla FC, with both sides on 53 points.

Title target
"The challenge for me is to help retain the title," said Edmílson, who has made 21 league appearances this term, three from the bench. "It would be my sixth championship in a row, and for that reason I have more desire than anyone." After he lifted France's Ligue 1 crown with Olympique Lyonnais in 2002, 2003 and 2004, Edmílson's move to Barcelona coincided with their resurgence under Rijkaard, resulting in Primera División successes in 2005 and 2006.

Cup ambition
And although their defence of the UEFA Champions League ended in the first knockout round against Liverpool FC this month, the former São Paulo FC player is also aiming to secure the Blaugrana's first Copa del Rey since 1998. "To have the perfect season, we have to win something, and to have the chance of the cup as well as the league is good. It would be great if we could win both, to add to last year's double," he explained.