Ronald Araujo didn't think twice about grabbing chance to play striker

Ronald Araujo didn't think twice about grabbing chance to play striker

Barcelona star Ronaldo Araujo says he did not hesitate at all when head coach Hansi Flick asked him to play striker late on against Girona.

The defender was the surprise hero after being moved up the pitch in a desperate move by Barca with Girona clinging on at 1-1.

He came on as a late substitute in an unfamiliar position up front and managed to score the winning header to delight  the crowd at the fans at Camp Nou

Speaking after the match, the Uruguayan said the most important thing was for the team to get the win but admitted he was delighted to have played such a critical role in grabbing three points.

"It was important to get the three points ahead of this week's big La Liga game (against Real Madrid on 26 October), he said.

"To be honest, it was a tough game for us. Girona stood up to us and played very well. They had a lot of chances, but the important thing is that the team showed desire and character until the end.

"We knew we were coming off two tough defeats, but with hunger and hard work, we knew we could get the win today.

"Looking ahead to this week, with the Champions League as well, it's important to go in with confidence.

"After a win, everything changes and you work differently.

"Everyone knows I used to play as a striker. I think if I played as a striker, I could score a lot more goals (laughs). When the coach asked me, I didn't hesitate to say yes.

"When I got there to put on the shirt, I said, 'If I go on, I'll score,' and everyone laughed afterwards when I did. I work to be able to play for the team, so I'm happy about that," he concluded.

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