Barcelona defender Dani Alves: 'I hope Lionel Messi is not fit for Real Madrid clash'

Dani Alves has said that he hopes Lionel Messi is not available for Barcelona's clash against Real Madrid next month.

The El Clasico rivals are due to meet at the Bernabeu on November 22, and Messi is currently recovering from ligament damage in his left knee picked up in September.

Despite already scoring six goals in nine appearances this season, however, the Argentina international is not wanted on the pitch as Alves looks for a bigger defensive test.

"I'd prefer a Superclasico without Messi. I hope Neymar's fit and Messi isn't. Without the best in the world against you, your chances go up," Alves told reporters following victory over Venezuela.

Barcelona are currently fourth in La Liga, but are level on points with second-placed Real and just one point behind league leaders Villarreal.