Messi fit to play, confirms Vilanova

Tito Vilanova has confirmed that Lionel Messi will play for Barcelona when they face Real Betis on Sunday evening.

Some had feared the worst when the Argentine forward was stretchered off against Benfica on Wednesday, but the 44-year-old has revealed that there is 'zero risk' in him playing.

“If there was even the slightest risk, Messi would not travel,” he told a Press conference. “But there is zero risk.

“If you travel with the team it means you are ready to play. That is the case, but we'll have to wait until tomorrow to see if he can play 90 minutes or not.”

He then commented on the problems posed by Pepe Mel's team and also the fitness of Alexis Sanchez.

“Real Betis and Pepe Mel have always caused us problems,” he said. “As for Alexis – he has recovered earlier than was expected and is physically well.

“He just has to acquire some match fitness first.”

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