New Barca deal for Messi

Lionel Messi has agreed a new contract to stay at Barcelona until 2018, while Carles Puyol and Xavi have also agreed new deals until 2016.



Messi's current deal runs until June 2016 and the new agreement will keep him at the Nou Camp beyond his 31st birthday.



The forward has enjoyed an extraordinary year, even by his own remarkable standards, netting his 89th and 90th goals of 2012 at the weekend.



The 25-year-old had already surpassed Gerd Muller's 40-year-old record of 85 goals in a calendar year.



He is also in contention to claim a fourth successive FIFA Ballon d'Or crown, being named on a three-man shortlist alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and team-mate Andres Iniesta.

Puyol: Elbow injury was the most painful experience

Barcelona centre-back, Carles Puyol spoke about the devastating dislocated elbow he suffered almost two months ago and despite the serious injury, will not change his style of play.

Puyol described the injury suffered in Barça’s 3-1 Champions League win over Benfica as the most painful experience he`s ever had and is described to be back in action.



“I’m pleased to be back and I’m pleased that we won, I’m happy that I’m getting back into the rhythm of things, the elbow injury was my worst experience as far as injuries go. It was very painful. I didn’t think it would be that bad.



“The only positive thing about an arm injury is that you can start physical training sooner. I just need to gain a bit of mobility and strength.



“You can’t think about what has happened to you in the past, If I stop myself from heading the ball or making tackles, it’s time to leave the sport. I always try to help the team and that was just an unfortunate play.”



The Catalan captain will be back in the starting line-up when the Blaugrana take on Spartak Moscow in Tuesday evening`s Champions League clash in Russia.




-->