Barca ‘have more to do without Messi’

BARCELONA: The rest of Barcelona’s squad would have to do “a little bit more” to make up for the absence of Lionel Messi for the next three weeks, said captain Andres Iniesta.

The Argentina forward faces a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a groin injury in Wednesday’s 1-1 La Liga draw with Atletico Madrid.

“There’s no question we are stronger with Messi,” Iniesta told Cadena Cope radio before tomorrow’s match at Sporting Gijon. “When these things happen we all have to give a little bit more.

“We lost two points against Atletico and we have to make sure we don’t throw away any more.”

Third-placed Barca, who won eight of their 10 games when a knee injury kept Messi out for two months last season, are three points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid.

Zinedine Zidane’s Real, who missed out on a La Liga record 17th straight victory when they drew 1-1 with Villarreal on Wednesday, visit Las Palmas tomorrow.

Real talisman Cristiano Ronaldo failed to find the net against Villarreal but Zidane was unconcerned.

“I’m not worried if he doesn’t score,” said the French coach. “I’m worried when he isn’t out on the pitch.

“What matters is for him to regain his form because he’ll always get goals.”

Las Palmas striker KevinPrince Boateng was sent off in a 4-1 defeat at Real Sociedad on Wednesday and is suspended.

Atletico host Deportivo La Coruna on Sunday and will be in positive mood after Angel Correa’s second-half equaliser against Barca.

Second-placed Sevilla travel tomorrow to Athletic Bilbao who are riding a three-game winning streak in La Liga.

Unbeaten Sevilla, 1-0 winners over city rivals Real Betis on Tuesday, are two points behind Real Madrid after five matches.

Midfield anchorman Sergio Busquets has extended his contract with Barcelona for three more years, until 2021.

“I am very pleased to continue at what is the club of my life. I hope to see out my career here,” said the 28-year-old Spanish international, whose deal includes a two-year extension option to 2023 depending on games played.

In addition, in 90 appearances for Spain he has helped La Roja to triumph at the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012. – Reuters