Ronaldinho recognises he has been below his best

MADRID, May 17 (Reuters) Brazilian forward Ronaldinho has accepted criticism of his performances for Barcelona this season and said he hoped to be in better shape for next year.

''I can give a lot more. I have scored more goals this year but I haven't had the consistency in my play of previous years,'' Ronaldinho told a news conference today.

''You learn a lot in bad times. Players live for the present but they have to prove that they deserve to be playing at this club every day.'' The 27-year-old is Barcelona's top scorer with 18 goals but has been criticised in the Spanish media for being out of shape, for missing training sessions with the rest of the squad, and for his inconsistency.

The side's recent humiliating exit from the King's Cup semi-final and subsequent draw with Real Betis, that saw them knocked off the top of the Primera Liga, also earned the players abuse from disgruntled fans.

The World Cup finals in Germany and Barca's pre-season tour of the United States last summer have been blamed for the dip in form of some of the club's key players.

As a result Ronaldinho has asked Brazil to leave him out of the squad for the Copa America which starts in June.

''I have spoken with the Brazil Football Confederation and explained that I need to rest to be in good shape for next season,'' he added.

''This year has been very hard. I didn't have the chance to prepare with the rest of my colleagues. It has worked against me and I don't want to make the same mistake again.'' On his future, the playmaker reiterated his desire to remain with the Primera Liga club, brushing away talk of a possible move to AC Milan.

''I am not thinking of anything else except Barcelona. I have always said I am happy here,'' he said.

Reuters TB DB2251