Gerard Deulofeu was disappointed to be sacrificed after Gerard Pique's red card but understood the decision.

Deulofeu turned in a bright performance but the former Everton winger was sacrificed in favour of Javier Mascherano, who slotted into Pique's place at the heart of defence.

"Yes, it has been a shame not to be able to continue due to the expulsion of Gerri," Deulofeu told Sport.

"It was my first Champions League match with Barca here at the stadium for five years.

"I found myself very well, fresh and fast when facing one-on-ones. I combined well with my team-mates and that is the way I want to make the most of my minutes.

"I have to let go and play as I know, but I'm in the best team in the world and I understand how difficult it is.

"There is a lot of quality here and in the end the coach is the boss, but I know I'm going to have minutes if I do what I have to do."