Barcelona boss Luis Enrique insists Lionel Messi was fully fit for last weekend’s Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Reports in Spain had suggested the Argentine needed to receive an injection prior to the Real Madrid clash, yet Enrique is adamant Messi was firing on all cylinders.

“It’s something for the doctors and if he needed an injection then that is their decision, it’s something for the patient and the player,” he told a Press conference.

“I don’t know, but he was 100 per cent fit for the game, although my advice is to avoid injections. Some can fix you but you [the assembled reporters] know my clear recommendations on this.

“Messi has a knock but he’s okay, he’s better. Medical issues are private matters for the player himself.”

Enrique was roundly criticised in the Catalan media for the tactics he employed at the Bernabeu, not sticking to Barca’s tried and trusted style, but said he does not even bother listening.

“From the start I’ve said that some people are able to listen to criticism, but I’m not. I know there has been a lot as it’s part of my job.

“I don’t even know what has been said but I’m glad the players and coaching staff were prepared to look at themselves after the game. That’s what makes me even more motivated.

“I accept full responsibility for the defeat in Madrid and if anyone is to blame then it’s me. That’s how I see it.

“At the same time, I must point out that we are joint-leaders, so not everything has been a complete disaster,” maintained Enrique, who believes his players did not show a lack of attitude.

“It’s not something that has happened previously and we’d be worried if there had been an attitude problem.

“There are situations in a football game that have an effect, and that’s my responsibility, but right now we are trying to change things.

“It was a difficult match and there were many factors involved. We didn’t have long spells of possession and didn’t press the ball after losing it.

“Still, we had nine corners to their three, but in general terms our opponents were superior,” he admitted.

Tags El Clasico Luis Enrique Messi
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