The holding midfielder had nothing but praise for the ex-Spain international, while he insisted that he did not deliberately get himself booked

Sergio Busquets feels Xavi made the difference for Barcelona in their 1-0 La Liga win over Celta on Sunday evening.

The Catalans struggled in the opening 45 minutes at the Balaidos, but improved after the break following the introduction of the veteran midfielder in the 58th minute.

Xavi eventually provided the assist for Jeremy Mathieu’s winner and Busquets had nothing but praise for his compatriot.

“In the first half we couldn’t find any outlets and Celta were the better team. In the second half we figured it out and were much better,” Busquets told reporters.

“Things were different when Xavi came on. We started playing better and we enjoyed more possession with him on the pitch.”

Busquets picked up a yellow card that will keep him out of the match against Almeria due to suspension, but will see him available for the vital game against Sevilla.

Nevertheless, the midfielder was quick to stress he did not pick up a booking deliberately.

“I did not collect a yellow card on purpose. I was looking for options when I took the free kick. Apparently the referee felt I took too long.”

The 26-year-old was involved in a remarkable incident in the closing stages of the game as Fabian Orellana was sent off after launching a patch of turf at him, much to the Barca man’s surprise.

“I don’t really know what happened. It was a weird moment.

“Then again, things happen in football. What happens on the pitch stays there. I don’t bear a grudge.”

Source Goal