MESSI MISS A TOUGH BREAK FOR BARCA

JORDI ALBA admits life without Lionel Messi is going to be difficult for Barcelona.

The Argentine maestro (above) will miss the next six games – starting with tonight’s Champions League clash with Inter Milan after breaking an arm at the weekend.

Spain star Alba, 29, who regularly combines with Messi down the Barca left, said: “No one can replace Leo.

“He makes any team far better and guarantees you at least 20 goals a season. Everyone always expects Messi to resolve a game by himself.

“We all have to pull our weight and dig in more than ever. But I trust in the team and think we’re going to come through this spell unscathed despite the fact Leo isn’t available.”

Messi will also sit out Sunday’s El Clasico at home to Real Madrid.

Alba added: “His absence affects me a lot, I feel much better and stronger with Leo in the team because he’s different to the rest, he sees passes that others cannot.

“He tries to find me and I try to find him on the pitch.”

Inter are on a run of seven straight wins in all competitions – and Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said: “We are up against a team in their best form of the season, who have won a number of games with late goals and who have a great team spirit.

“Inter are a team that like to play in the opponents’ half.

“I think It will be entertaining because whoever wins will go top and take a huge step towards qualifying.”