Barcelona legend Johan Cruyff has said that his former club will not suffer in the absence of head coach Tito Vilanova.

The 44-year-old underwent surgery on a throat tumour today after it was confirmed that he had suffered a recurrence of the cancer he recovered from last year.

Cruyff, who was stricken with heart problems during his time in charge of the Catalan giants, said that he was shocked by the news, but thinks that the Barca players know what they need to do.

"The news was a surprise," Football Espana quotes Cryuff as saying. "My first thoughts go to his wife and children. Those are the ones who suffer the most.

"I do not think his absence will affect the team, they know what to do. There's a game ahead and then time to relax. They are people with experience and that is increased now that they have to take command."

Jordi Roura will handle first-team affairs in Vilanova's absence, and Cruyff has thrown his weight behind the 45-year-old assistant.

"I know him well, he is calm," added Cuyff. "There is no rush. I think they have the game with Valladolid and then rest. It is in February when things become more serious.

"He has a very good team, with older players in it. I remember Roura well, I had him for several years, he went through all the categories. Why should he not be trusted?"

Barca, who sit top of La Liga, travel to Valladolid on Saturday.