MAN OF THE WEEK LIONEL MESSI

THIS week’s column could not pass without me acknowledging the genius of Barcelona’s mesmerising No 10 (right), who continues to rewrite the record books. There could not have been a more dramatically appropriate way to score his 500th club goal than with the last kick of last week’s

clasico, his strike blowing the race for La Liga wide open and leaving his bitter rival Cristiano Ronaldo devastated. Messi was feted in the Nou Camp on Wednesday, with a gigantic banner unfurled before kick-off in his honour. He left the field after scoring another two goals against Osasuna with a standing ovation and the crowd singing his name like a hymn. And to think some people have suggested his form this season hasn’t been what it should be. He’s got 49 goals now! I’ve said it before but I will say it again: he is the greatest club player of all time. Let’s enjoy him while we can.