Rijkaard sees improvement

Barcelona have won 7 out of their 9 matches this year, drawing the other two, but Frank Rijkaard still sees room for improvement in his side. Barca beat Atletico 3-0 yesterday, and moved up to second.

"The team has done well and fulfilled its work," he said after the Atletico game. "(But) there is still room for improvement and we can grow more."

Barca took the lead after 17 minutes when Atletico goalkeeper Christian Abbiati spilled a cross and allowed Deco the simplest of goals.

Messi doubled the lead soon after before Xavi wrapped up the win with Barca's third in the final moments.

Rijkaard believes Deco's opener was a vital breakthrough for his side.

"We have started quite nervously, but after the first goal we have played with much more confidence and speed," the Dutchman said.

"We were not always at the highest level, and were a little tired for the effort we had to put into to take the lead. (But) the team deserved to win."

Messi's goal was his sixth of the season, and saw him go clear at the top of the Primera Liga scoring charts.

Rijkaard said of the brilliant youngster: "He is a key player, capable of doing great things. It is a pleasure to watch him on the pitch."