Barcelona defender Daniel Alves paid tribute to his team-mates who he said were "born to win" after he picked up the Professional Football League (LFP) awards for Best Defender in the 2008/09 season in the Primera Liga.

"We must be happy, especially for all my colleagues that, while not receiving any awards, were part of the successes that we have. We came here to represent them," he said according to Sport.

The Brazilian also said that he feels Barca's success has caused opponents to rethink their game plan when playing against the Blaugrana.

"We're champions and we were born to win. We play well and because we are playing teams decide to defend themselves from Barcelona. Before the teams came with the positive belief that they could win against Barca and are now trying not to lose," Alves noted.

On his own recovery from injury Alves believes he will be fit in time to face Rubin Kazan in Russia in the UEFA Champions League on November 4.

"I feel great and my progress is fantastic. If it continues, I think I will be available to the coach for the next Champions League match," he declared.