Wednesday night's Champions League clash between Barcelona and Benfica could prove to be a memorable night for Lionel Messi as he goes into the game one goal behind Gerd Muller's record of 85 in a calendar year, set in 1972. As he chases the record, here are some of his finest moments
Thursday 6 December 2012 08:37, UK
Watch highlights of Lionel Messi's magic moments as he chases Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals.
Lionel Messi heads into Wednesday night's UEFA Champions League clash against Benfica one goal behind Gerd Muller's record of 85 in a calendar year, set in 1972. Barcelona are set to name an understrength line-up for the game but Messi, however, will feature against the Portuguese visitors, who head into the match in second spot but level on seven points with Celtic. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Barca boss Tito Vilanova said: "Leo was rested last week against Alaves in the Copa del Rey. "It's not about records for goals - the main thing is to win. He is the same as always. He always wants to play and he is in his best habitat when he is playing. "I'm excited that he plays, and for us it is always better."
Barcelona defender Adriano insists Messi's team-mates will be doing everything they can to help the Argentine to Muller's record.
"We will be with him and will try to do everything possible towards that tomorrow. The goal is to go out and win the match and to see Messi equal the record," he told a press conference.
"It is best not to think about it and to not be obsessed, but to instead play normally. Leo thinks the same, whilst we want to help.
"But, Leo is demonstrating each season that he wants to do his best and in seeing this, especially in light of what he has already achieved, it makes us want to give our best in every game to help make this possible. He is a phenomenon."
