Barcelona midfielder Xavi has stressed that having talent, rather than physical advantage, is the decisive factor to succeed in football.
Xavi faced critics early in his career when doubters said that the Spain international would not be able to succeed in football due to his slight build.
At 1.70meters, Xavi is one of the smallest footballers around but he has proved his critics wrong, having been recently nominated for the Fifa Ballon d'Or for a third consecutive season.
His playmaking skills have been cited as a key factor for both Barcelona and Spain's success and the 31-year-old believes that technical ability is more important than physical attributes.
Xavi told Sport: "Talent is the decisive factor in football, much more than physical presence. I'm convinced that it's technical quality that makes the difference.
"Back in 2002-03, people told me that I wasn't suited to play in the centre of the pitch as you needed to be physically strong. I have shown you don't need to be a physical player to be a top midfielder."
Xavi is shortlisted in the final three for the 2011 Ballon d'Or award along with Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo.
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