Blaise Matuidi: Lionel Messi's absence "changes some things"

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Blaise Matuidi has admitted that Lionel Messi's absence in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Barcelona will give them some advantage.

The Argentine forward is struggling with a thigh injury he picked up during his side's 2-2 draw with PSG in the first leg in France last week.

"He's the best player in the world, so of course it changes some things if he doesn't play," Matuidi told L'Equipe.

"But above all we're thinking about playing our game, playing to our strengths and doing what we know best how to do. We're going there to qualify, not as tourists."

Matuidi is suspended for Wednesday's second leg, which will be held at Camp Nou in Barcelona.