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Barca coach Luis Enrique remains coy on Messi presence in Clasico

Xinhua, November 21, 2015 Adjust font size:

FC Barcelona coach Luis Enrique refused to confirm whether or not Leo Messi would start in Saturday's 'Clasico' away to Real Madrid on Saturday evening.

Messi has been training with his companions all week after suffering a knee injury almost two months ago and will travel to Madrid. The big question is whether he will start the game on the pitch or on the subs' bench.

"The feeling with Leo is positive. He is back working with the squad and although it is evident he is not 100 percent fit, it is a guarantee for us to have him recovered."

"I am going to talk to him and tomorrow and we will decide tomorrow if he plays or not," said Luis Enrique, who added that Ivan Rakitic was in a similar situation after recovering from a calf problem.

The Barca coach was also asked about the security situation surrounding the game in the wake of the Paris attacks, responding; "the situation the world is in at the moment worries me, but I have to focus on the football and leave security matters to others."

The Barca coach said he side were travelling to Madrid "with the aim of winning the three points."

"It's going to be a difficult game, but I hope to see my team at their best," he added, before highlighting the danger posed by Madrid.

"They can play short, hit long passes, move the ball well and they are good from set pieces. They are one of the best sides in the World, but I don't think they are better than we are. If we don't have a good day they can beat us as they did last season, but I always expect the best from my players," said Luis Enrique. Endit