Gerardo Martino to decide on Lionel Messi

Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino has remained tight-lipped on whether Lionel Messi will start tomorrow's match at Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines to score two goals in a 4-0 win over Getafe in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.

However, Martino is wary of rushing the 26-year-old into a crucial fixture.

"He looks fine and had a phenomenal 30 minutes in the cup but he returned after a long time out and the question is whether he is now ready to play a full game at this level," the 51-year-old told reporters.

"We will make a decision tomorrow. It's not really a case of asking a player how he feels as they will usually say 'fine'.

"I have to go by my sensations and look at different aspects to make a decision which people will judge me on. I am the Barcelona coach and pick my XI and then afterwards a decision will be made on how well I do."

Barca and Atleti are level at the top of the league on 49 points.