MTNFootball

Barcelona goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto says he will try to challenge Victor Valdes, although he been second best for the past few seasons.

Pinto has made just 48 appearances for the Catalans since joining the club from Celta Vigo in 2008, with most of them coming in the Copa del Rey where former coach Pep Guardiola used him in the starting lineup.

The 36-year-old admitted that he was unsure how new coach Tito Vilanova was going to manage the goalkeepers this season, the last season of his initial five-year contract.

"Tito (Vilanova) will make the decision he feels is best for the team," Pinto told reporters.

"Whether he thinks it is best I play in the cup or La Liga or whatever, I will continue working, because I am competitive and ambitious and I will try to get Victor's job."

Barcelona kick-off their pre-season tour with a clash against German side Hamburg on Tuesday and into says the squad has regrouped well.

"I think it has been typical, we're adapting, doing physical work and the moment everything goes smoothly, players have been eager," he said.

The Catalans will challenge for their first trophy of the season when they face Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercup.

The first leg will take place at the Camp Nou on August 23rd with the return leg set for the Santiago Bernabeu six days later.