Isaac Cuenca fits the mould at Barcelona

The young winger might not look the part but he has been schooled in the Barcelona way and is the latest example of how homegrown talent can surpass expensive imports at Camp Nou.

Isaac Cuenca, right, has been given his chance in Barcelona's first team this season thanks to injuries.

Pep Guardiola offered a rare smile as he spoke about young Barcelona winger Isaac Cuenca following Saturday's 5-0 win over Levante. His side have now hit an astonishing 39 goals at home without reply in the league, although their away form leaves much to be desired.

"Physically maybe the girls don't like Isaac Cuenca," Guardiola said, "but he plays perfectly."

When quizzed about that later, a Cuenca blushing said: "You'll have to ask the girls."

It is true that the 20 year old from the Catalan city of Reus doesn't possess the looks of George Clooney - or even Guardiola - but he has been undeniably effective since becoming a regular face in the first -team squad following his first start against Granada in October.

The last week has been good for Barca's newest first teamers. Cesc Fabregas scored twice against Levante, while Alexis Sanchez netted three times in two games.

But it was Cuenca's 37th-minute goal against Levante which saw the greatest celebrations.

Injuries have given Cuenca an opportunity this season and he seized his chance in the Catalans' first XI. Some debutants freeze, not Cuenca.

He is a traditional winger who gets to the byline and puts a cross in, but he has been moulded into Barca's perfectly honed system and boasts the movement off the ball to dovetail with the existing side.

Many of Barca's most effective signings have come from within their own ranks. Cuenca is another example, even if he doesn't look like a superstar.