Lionel Messi has claimed that his love for Barcelona means that he will never play football in England.

The 24-year-old has been at the Catalan club since he was a child and admits that he would like to finish his career at the club.

Messi told The Sun: "I have never thought about life beyond Barcelona. My heart belongs to the club and I can never see the day arrive when I want to leave.

"I accept you never know what can happen in the future but if it's my decision and my decision alone then I would be happy to finish my playing career at the club.

"The Premier League is immensely exciting and when I get the opportunity I love to watch it on television. There is a great deal to admire about English football.

"But I could never see the day arrive when I would play in England. It's hard to look beyond my own club and it's not something I have ever thought about or considered."

Messi scored a brace during Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Levante on Saturday.