Compilation Of Lionel Messi Being 'The World's Best Defender' Laughs At 'Lazy' Myth

A stunning compilation of Lionel Messi being 'the world's best defender' proves that everyone calling him 'lazy' is flat out wrong.

The Barcelona superstar is arguably one of the greatest attackers ever, but he has been criticised for not helping the team overall.

Messi often walks around in games and many see that as him not being interested in the gritty aspect of football.

But a compilation from @BestOfMartial shows he isn't afraid of getting down and dirty - even showcasing a few crunching slide tackles.

Barcelona have always enjoyed more possession than their opponents and a lot of that is down to how quickly they regain the ball.

Former manager Pep Guardiola once remarked that quality actually makes Messi one of the world's best defenders.

He said back in 2013: "Messi wins the ball playing as the false No.9. If you put him at left-back, he would be just as good. He is the best defender in the world," Guardiola told reporters.

"Before arriving at Barcelona I had never seen Messi play. But Tito Vilanova had great things to say about him."

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Fans have had their say on the video and they think it's time to stop underrating Messi's contributions across the pitch.

One user said: "This guy can do everything, amazes me how people compare him to other footballers, so disrespected."

Another added: "Being the smallest you have to be the smartest to survive. He always saves energy for attacking but when he decides to go after the ball, oh boy!"

A third stated: "You ever watch little kids play? And there's one kid who is just so much better than the rest, it's almost a mismatch.. same thing here, only with professionals."

While another put: "He will always be the most complete footballer in history."

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Messi helped Barcelona to a 3-0 win over Elche on Wednesday evening, scoring two goals.

His first was a highlight, with the 33-year-old finishing off a lovely no-look backheel from Martin Braithwaite.

Messi started the attack by driving at Elche's defence, skipping past a few players before picking out strike partner Braithwaite.

The Danish forward then flicked the ball back to Messi, who rounded off the move with a neat finish.

Topics: Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi, La Liga

Daniel Marland

Daniel is a journalist for SPORTbible and he has previous experience with Manchester United. He has spoken to some of the biggest names in sport including Rio Ferdinand, Peter Crouch, WWE COO Triple H and WWE legend The Undertaker. May or may not do a decent impression of Jamie Carragher.

@DanMarland_