Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets ‘best midfielder in the world without a doubt’, hails Luis Enrique

Sergio Busquets vies with Getafe midfielder Pablo Sarabia. Javier Soriano / AFP

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique described Sergio Busquets as the “best midfielder in the world” after the Spanish international produced another near perfect performance in the Catalans’ 2-0 win at Getafe.

Luis Suarez and Neymar again carried the goalscoring burden in the absence of the injured Lionel Messi with a goal either side of half-time to take Barca back on level terms with Real Madrid at the top of the table.

The South American duo have now scored the European champions’ last 14 goals in La Liga since Messi suffered knee ligament damage over a month ago.

However, Enrique choose to highlight the consistently brilliant but often overlooked Busquets.

“He is a unique player. He is the most complete and, for me, best midfielder in the world without a doubt,” he said.

“He is a fundamental player for us, not just for his football intelligence but because he can play in any position and play at a very high level.”

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Indeed, Enrique admitted his biggest worry with Busquets is to ensure he gets enough rest having started every one of Barca’s league and Champions League games this season due to a spate of injuries to other midfielders.

“Playing in front of the defence is where he feels most comfortable and when he is there the team gains solidity in defence and attack.

“He is a key player and I will try to give him a rest when I can.”

Enrique was finally able to count on Sergi Roberto and Andres Iniesta after they overcame groin and hamstring injuries respectively.

And it was 23-year-old Roberto who bolstered his burdening reputation with assists for both goals, including a spectacular backheel to play in Suarez for the opener.

“We are starting to get players back which is positive,” added Enrique.

“Sergi played a very complete game. He is changing positions and giving us a lot. He is in great form and we have to take advantage of that.

“Andres felt good in the half hour he had and is desperate for more.”

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