Marquez puts Barca first

Barcelona defender Rafael Marquez is ready to put club before country.

The 28-year-old central defender is due to play in the Copa America this summer, but may arrive late for the pre-tournament warm-up as he helps the Catalan side in their title quest.

With the international event due to begin on 26th June, the Mexico squad will assemble early and that date is set to clash with Barca's final games.

Before speaking to Sanchez, the former Monaco stopper has explained his feelings to Frank Rijkaard.

"I have told the coach and said that I want to put Barcelona first," he stated. "I would be delighted to play in all the games and this is my plan."

Marquez then revealed that he understands some of the criticism that has come his way in recent weeks and admitted that he has not been on top form.

"I am not at my best level at the moment, but also not at my worst," he stated. "I have been criticised, especially in Mexico, for the odd mistake, but I think that I am improving all the time."

Barca are aiming for a third consecutive title and are confident that they are in pole position as they do not have to face any of their three closest rivals.

Sitting two points clear at the top, the Blaugrana have the best run-in on paper, but Marquez warned that this weekend will not be easy either.

"It is the toughest game we have left, along with the game against Atletico Madrid," he said

Real Madrid are five points behind Rijkaard's side and have been unconvincing this term, but as they continue to pick up points, Marquez is not prepared to write them off.

"They are winning points," he said. "They may win by slim margins, but they are winning and, therefore, that have to be considered as a rival for the title."