Luis Enrique: Thomas Vermaelen is a "big asset" for Barcelona

Luis Enrique has described Thomas Vermaelen as a "big asset" after the defender scored Barcelona's only goal in their 1-0 win over Malaga in La Liga.

The Belgian international joined the Catalan side from Arsenal last summer, but missed much of his first season with the club through a recurring hamstring injury, making his debut in the final match of the season.

The manager said at his post-match press conference: "I'm not surprised by his level of play. He is still not 100% and has to keep accumulating minutes. He is a big asset at set pieces, he has a lot of character and is an expert player."

Barcelona have a 100% record from their first two matches of the campaign.