Diego Simeone hails "extraordinary" Barcelona forward Lionel Messi

Diego Simeone has refuted Ernesto Valverde's claims that Lionel Messi is feeling fatigued, as he felt that the Barcelona forward's display against his Atletico Madrid side was "extraordinary".

The 30-year-old was in action for national side Argentina in the early hours of Wednesday morning, scoring all three goals as La Albiceleste came out on top 3-1 in Quito - a result that sent them through to the World Cup finals.

Valverde suggested after Barca's 1-1 draw with Atletico on Saturday night that Messi is still feeling the effects of his hectic October schedule, which has seen him play four games for club and country on two continents.

Simeone was full of praise for the Barcelona ace at full time, though, telling reporters: "The stadium was wonderful, we had another night of brilliant football, and with the impressive Messi - extraordinary.

"Messi was the only one who you could see where, every time he touched the ball, something different could happen. He was certainly not as tired as many expected after the trip because he played a tremendous match."

Atletico, now without a win in 15 meetings against Barcelona, are third in the La Liga standings and six points adrift of their opponents.