Lionel Messi: "I'm not 100% yet"

Lionel Messi has revealed that he is not yet fully fit following his return from injury.

The four-time Ballon d'Or winner returned from a thigh injury and has hit something of a drought after failing to find the net in four games.

However, following Friday night's 1-0 win against Espanyol, he stated he is yet to reach his optimum fitness levels.

"Physically, I am not 100% yet, but with games under my belt I'm sure I'll get into my stride," Messi told AS. "Games against Espanyol are always difficult."

Meanwhile, teammate Alexis Sanchez has leapt to the defence of Messi following the Argentina international's barren spell.