Barcelona defender Jordi Alba has claimed that Neymar's exit to Paris Saint-Germain has only helped him regain his confidence.
Neymar's world-record transfer to PSG was regarded as a significant blow to Barca, but the Catalan giants sit top of the La Liga table and have not suffered defeat in any competition this season.
Alba had struck up a partnership with Neymar on the left flank, but the full-back has said that the Brazilian's departure has left him with more space and belief to play his natural game.
The 28-year-old told Mundo Deportivo: "He is a great player who, due to his circumstances or feelings or thoughts, decided to leave.
"In the end, there are still many more guys who can do a good job and I am delighted with the people there. As I said before, I have more space to run into and honest, for me, it's much better.
"I have regained confidence. With more space on the left I am very comfortable and that is demonstrated in the field. I'm enjoying it in a way I haven't for a long time."
Alba has made 12 starts for Barca in all competitions this season.
Darren Plant
