FIT-AGAIN MESSI IN LINE FOR ATLETICO RECALL
MADRID, Jan 10, 2014 (AFP) - Four-time World Player of the Year Lionel Messi could make his first start in two months as Barcelona travel to face Atletico Madrid in a top of the table clash on Saturday.
Both sides are locked on 49 points having dropped just five points each in 18 league games this season.
Messi made a spectacular return from a hamstring injury on Wednesday as he scored twice as a second-half substitute in the Catalans' 4-0 thrashing of Getafe in the Copa del Rey.
The Argentine's form leaves coach Gerardo Martino with a difficult decision as to who to start up front at the Vicente Calderon.
Brazilian forward Neymar is also available after missing the Getafe game with a bout of gastroenteritis, but the triumvirate of Alexis Sanchez, Pedro Rodriguez and Cesc Fabregas have deputised ably in Messi and Neymar's absence in recent weeks.
Midfielder Xavi Hernandez hailed Messi's return as great news for the club heading into such a busy period on three fronts and believes the competition for places can only be a good thing.
“He doesn't surprise you anymore, but to see him in that form is impressive. He has returned hungry. The important thing is that he has returned in good shape and motivated,” he told the Barcelona website.
“We are strong and now
Messi made a spectacular return from a hamstring injury on Wednesday as he scored twice as a second-half substitute in the Catalans' 4-0 thrashing of Getafe in the Copa del Rey. The Argentine's form leaves coach Gerardo Martino with a difficult decision as to who to start up front at the Vicente Calderon
that we have both him and Victor (Valdes) back there is a lot of competition and the team is looking pretty good.
“The game against Atletico is vital for the development of the league. It is not definitive but if we were to win it would be a strong signal of intent.” Many believe Saturday will be the acid test of whether Atletico can realistically challenge Barca for the title.
However, midfielder Koke was keen to play down the importance of the clash with a further 19 league games still remaining after the weekend.
“It will be an important game because it is between the top two teams in the league.
However, it is only one match and the whole second-half of the season is left, although we realise it is the most important game we have played until now.