In Barcelona’s 6-0 thrashing of Athletic Bilbao at the Camp Nou on Sunday, Lionel Messi was withdrawn from the game at half-time, sparking fears over a hamstring injury.
However, the Blaugrana announced the following day that it was merely a knock, nothing serious, as the Catalan giants gear up to face Ernesto Valverde’s crew once more in the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash, though no return date was set.
Nonetheless, speaking ahead of Wednesday’s trip to the San Mamés Stadium, Luis Enrique was upbeat over La Pulga’s chances of making the game.
"He's fine and before the game we'll decide whether or not he plays," said Luis Enrique.
Messi converts from the spot for Barca's opening goal in their 6-0 win over Bilbao
The midweek game is one of four games being played over a span of 11 days by Barcelona.
With this congested period fixtures, the Liga BBVA holders might opt against risking Leo, but there are no worries, as they will have in-form Brazilian ace Neymar at their disposal.
Speaking about the former Santos attacker, Enrique insisted that the Selecao captain is in better form this season than in the previous, revealing his delight at seeing the 23-year-playing playing at the top of his game.
"He's in better shape than me. After games we hold a recovery session and that can be done in the gym.
“It's up to them. In my opinion, Neymar is in better form than he was last year, irrespective of whether or not Messi plays, and he was already in great form last year.
“These types of players, who appear to have magic in their boots when they run at players, tend to bring this sort of reaction from the opposition. I'm sure he gets kicked all over the park when he plays for Brazil.
“We're thrilled for him to continue playing as he is."
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