Barcelona star Arda Turan has sung the praises of Lionel Messi describing him as the greatest player in the world but also as being a genuine person off the field.

Turan was quoted by Sport as saying: “Messi is the best in the world. He’s also a very good person.”

The bearded winner also wished his teammate a speedy recovery and hopes he recovers in time for the El Clasico against arch rivals Real Madrid next week.

“I can’t say anything about his injury. Our medical team are managing the situation. I hope he can play in the Clasico. He should always be on the pitch because it’s the best for us,” he added.

Barcelona take on Real Madrid at the Camp Nou next Saturday in the first La Liga El Clasico this season.

Turan will be unable to play despite being match fit due to the FIFA transfer ban which restricts the club from registering new players until the turn of the year.

The Turkish international winger joined the reigning La Liga champions on a five-year deal over the summer but has been unable to play a single game for his new club due to the ban.

Turan is however, match fit thanks to games for the Turkish national team where the ban does not apply.

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