Ronald Koeman lauded super-sub Lionel Messi after his success against Real Betis.
The game-changing influence of Lionel Messi, who came off the bench to inspire a 3-2 LaLiga victory over Real Betis, was lauded by Barcelona head trainer Ronald Koeman.
As a substitute for Barca in LaLiga, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner scored his quickest goal just 136 seconds after his start.
Koeman saluted superstar captain Messi post-match, telling reporters: “I always talk to the players and I express to them my ideas.”
“I spoke to Lionel Messi yesterday about whether he was happy with having a rest and that if we needed him during the game, I was going to bring him on.”
“That’s what ended up happening. We were losing 1-0 and just a few minutes after coming on to the pitch he completely changed the game.”
“He scored the equaliser and then added a lot to our play in the second half.”
