GOAL

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has admitted that La Liga rivals Real Madrid have forced his side to maintain a consistently high level throughout the campaign.

Speaking on his birthday, the coach said that the best present he could receive would be trophies at the end of the season - but he is aware how difficult it will be

There are only three games of the Primera Division campaign remaining and, though the Catalans command a two-point advantage over the capital side, the ex-Spain international, who turned 44 on Friday, believes nothing is settled in the title race.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's fixture against Real Sociedad, he said: "It is true we are having a great season, but so are Madrid. It is one of the most hotly contested titles in recent times, which makes it more exciting. It is more motivating. 

"We've had the good sense to rely on our own results so far, and we want to keep it that way."

David Moyes' men are one of only four teams in the league to have defeated Barca this season, so the coach is well aware of the threat his side face at Camp Nou, particularly as it comes sandwiched between two Champions League semi-final fixtures against Bayern.

"Our highest priority is to focus on La Real. We know that they are one of the few teams to beat us. If we win, we will take another small step for the league," he said.

"After a game of great intensity, it is true that other matches can be dangerous. But the possibility of winning the league makes the game of the utmost importance. We will not relax. We're thinking of our fans 100 per cent and the key is to win these points and be champions."

Earlier this season, there was a rift between the coach and star player Lionel Messi, but the former Celta boss has now praised the unity in the locker room.

Asked what his perfect birthday present might be, he responded: "The best gift has been the players' professional attitude this season. The best gift for all of us would be trophies.

"I always watch how the bench players celebrate the goals. There's a wonderful atmosphere in this group, players are united."

Barcelona's position at the summit of the standings is vulnerable because even a draw could open up top spot for Madrid to claim, owing to the better head-to-head record Carlo Ancelotti's men command.

The Catalans are still placed to win the treble of La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.