Ronaldinho has played just seven full games in 28 league fixtures so far this season, and has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the Nou Camp - with AC Milan and Chelsea among several clubs reportedly interested in him.

The 27-year-old, who has been dogged by injuries this campaign, has seemed a shadow of his former self over the past year but Rijkaard claims Ronaldinho is still very much part of Barca's future.

"Above all I consider him a great person with a great character," he told Spanish sports daily AS.

"And more than his football qualities he has given a lot to his team-mates, to the club and to the fans.

"I don't want to say that there's a relationship, but after so many years working together I hold him dear and I always want well for him.

"I respect him a lot."

Ronaldinho missed Barca's 4-1 victory over Real Valladolid on Sunday and the midweek cup defeat to Valencia, having also sat out the previous Primera Liga match in Almeria after complaining of pain in his left thigh.

A scan later revealed the Brazil international was not suffering from an injury, but Rijkaard refused to criticise the former world player of the year.

"The player has some pains and we hope that he will recover as soon as possible," the Dutchman added.

"We have to believe the player. Ronaldo has given a lot to Barca."

Rijkaard was happier to talk about Bojan Krkic, who is making waves at the Nou camp this season.

The 17-year-old scored two of Barca's four goals on Sunday to help secure a result which closed the gap on leaders Real Madrid to four points after the capital club's 3-2 defeat at home to Valencia.

"He has the intelligence of a much older footballer," added Rijkaard.

"He had a great game, he worked hard, he looked at the positioning of the players on the pitch.

"I congratulate him."