Rijkaard defends Ronaldinho's weight
Written by Nicholas Savage , 25.02 19h30
Frank Rijkaard has spoken out to defend Ronaldinho over criticism he is overweight.
The move follows photos taken after Barcelona's Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
Rijkaard said: "When the photo is taken quite close by, with inadequate light or if there is some movement, it can vary the reality a lot.
"In this instance, for me there are doubts. For me, there's no problem."
Ronaldinho was a key influence in Barca's Spanish league title successes in 2005 and 2006 and also helped the club win the Champions League last season.
Rijkaard added: "The player has always given great performances, and I have total confidence in him and we should be happy to have him with us.
"It is such a pity to see how people change opinion so easily about a player who has given so much to this club.
"Thanks to his strength of mind Ronnie has got where he is today, winning titles and prizes on the way."
