Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi insists he is not feeling any
pressure to return early from a foot injury.
The 19-year-old has been sidelined since the beginning of November
after breaking a metatarsal against Real Zaragoza.
After spending the last month working on his recovery in his
homeland, Messi is back in Barcelona ready to return to
training.
But the Argentinian international is adamant he will not rush his
recovery to help Barca get back to their scintillating best.
"I feel the complete opposite of pressure. I am simply keen to get
back on the field of play again," Messi said.
"If everything goes well the doctors have agreed I will return to
training with the team on Monday.
"I am feeling good but have not played football for three months
and this is all I lack now."
Messi could return to action for Frank Rijkaard's side as early as
next weekend's league game against Racing Santander.
Meanwhile, Barca striker Santiago Ezquerro reportedly rejected a
move to Everton during the January transfer window.
Everton are understood to have been keen to take the 30-year-old to
Goodison Park on loan until the end of the season.
However, Ezquerro rejected their advances, saying: "I want to
triumph in Barcelona."
David Moyes could rekindle his interest in the former Athletic
Bilbao front-man in the summer.