GOAL

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique has joked Lionel Messi would be "unstoppable" even if he played him as a full-back.

The 44-year-old says the Argentine is the complete player, while adding his thoughts on the future of Dani Alves and Xavi

The 27-year-old has been in stunning form in recent weeks and has already netted 18 goals since the turn of the year.

Luis Enrique feels there's much more to the Argentine's game than just goals and has insisted he would do well if he was deployed in another position, too.

"Messi will be great regardless of the position where he plays," Luis Enrique said at a press conference. "Leo would also be unstoppable if I played him at full-back. Messi is simply the best there is."

The Barca coach also had his say on the future of Dani Alves, whose contract expires in the summer, and insists he hopes the Brazil international will stay put, but admitted the decision is out of his hands.

He added: "Would I like Alves to sign a new deal? Just look at my line-ups and you have your answer...

"Dani Alves is a special player in my opinion. But it is up to the club and the player in the end." 

Xavi, 35, is in line to make his 750th appearance for Barcelona when the Liga leaders face Eibar this weekend and Luis Enrique believes he can significantly add to that tally despite his advancing years.

"Xavi playing 750 games for Barcelona is a lot...

"I hope he stays at Barcelona for many more years. He adds a lot to this team, both on and off the pitch."