Barca players support Rijkaard

Barcelona's players have thrown their support behind coach Frank Rijkaard amid reports the Dutchman will quit the Nou Camp this summer.

Rijkaard, who has led Barca to back-to-back Primera Liga championships and last year's Champions League title, has been tipped to leave the club at the end of the season by the Spanish media.

However, some of those players who have helped Barca become the team to beat in both Spain and Europe hope Rijkaard remains in charge for next season.

Midfielder Xavi said on his club's website: "For me, he's the ideal coach for the club and for the team. Everyone gets on with him, its great. For all that's good, I hope he stays."

Those thoughts were echoed by defender Giovanni van Bronkhorst, a countryman of Rijkaard's.

"He's a coach who has won it all as a player and for me, is one of the best coaches," said Van Bronkhorst, who hopes Rijkaard "stays for many years".

"I hope he doesn't leave. Since I've been here, he's always been the coach. The change has been very good for the team and for the club."

Barca, who were this week rocked by suggestions of a divide in the team by striker Samuel Eto'o, will look to consolidate their three-point lead in the league when they go to Valencia tomorrow.