The Barcelona striker had played every minute of their season in the Liga and Champions League until left out of the starting line-up against Juventus on Wednesday, four days before Sunday's top-of-the-table showdown at Valencia. Messi came on for a very rare appearance as a substitute in the second half as Barca drew 0-0 with the Serie A champions to seal their place in the last 16 of the Champions League as group winners. "But I understand it's a long season and that I have to look after myself more because the seasons keep getting tougher." A win at Mestalla would see Ernesto Valverde's side stride seven points clear of Valencia, their nearest challengers, while staying at least 10 points clear of champions Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. Messi also won the award for 2009-10, 2011-12 and 2012-13.

Source: The Star November 24, 2017 14:26 UTC