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Messi is the best ever - Coutinho hails Barcelona star

Lionel Messi's masterclass in the 4-2 Champions League win at Tottenham prompted Barcelona team-mate Philippe Coutinho to describe him as the "best ever".

Coutinho gave Barca a second-minute lead at Wembley on Wednesday but it was Messi's brace in the second half that ensured Ernesto Valverde's men ended a run of three games without a win.

Messi was also involved in Barca's opener before taking his Champions League tally to 64 goals from 65 appearances in the group stage, while Jordi Alba recorded a trio of assists.

Former Barca striker Gary Lineker described Messi as the best player in history on social media and Coutinho was quick to agree with that assessment after scoring his first Champions League goal for the club.