Messi not fazed by pressure

Argentine ace backs team-mates

By Lucas Brown   Last updated: 27th November 2008

Lionel Messi Barcelona Basle Champions League

Messi: Backing for team-mates

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Lionel Messi has stated that he feels no pressure at Barcelona and does not believe that the team rely on him as many pundits have suggested this season.

The Argentinian's ability is undoubted and he put in another impressive display as the Blaugrana beat Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday night to win their UEFA Champions League group.

But while his talent is a huge bonus for Barca, he does not think that the team cannot perform well and win when he is not available.

"I do not think that the team depends on me. We have enough players and we all work together. It is not important who is on the pitch," Messi told the club's official website.

"The most important thing is that we win and that the team has done well despite certain things like the long grass, which did not help us when we wanted to move the ball around quickly."

Messi returned from international duty with an injury and was left out of the game against Getafe last weekend, but he believes that he is now fully recovered and ready to play regularly again.

"I had a slight knock during the week, but I am fine. I will play, if all goes well, in the next few games," continued Messi.

"We know that they will be difficult because now we are facing the top teams and it will be important to win to stay in first place."

Barcelona face Sevilla, Valencia, Real Madrid and Villarreal in their last four matches before the festive break and that could see them move clear at the top or be overtaken.