LIONEL MESSI LEAVES his Barcelona team-mates in no doubt as to when he is angry despite his introverted nature, according to Eric Abidal.

The forward faced criticism from fellow Argentina legend and former national team coach Diego Maradona, who suggested Messi’s quietness made him an ineffective captain.

Sevilla sporting director Joaquin Caparros came out in defence of the 31-year-old, however, insisting he is “like a lion” when he gets “pissed off”.

And Barca’s director of football Abidal also pointed out that Messi readily makes his feelings known, but that the club captain leads by example.

“He’s an example as a captain. Not just talent-wise, also as a person,” Abidal told the club’s official website.

“He doesn’t talk much, but he shows us everything on the field. He’s a key player for us and for the dressing room.

“We always say that Leo doesn’t need to talk. Everyone knows when he’s angry and everyone knows when he’s happy. 

“His role in the team is important for the young players and the new signings. 

“Leo’s story is a beautiful one, but he’s shown that here at Barca, with hard work, lots of things are possible.

“He’s a great player and thanks to him the level of the other players increases.”

Messi, who has not appeared for Argentina since the last-16 loss to eventual champions France at the World Cup in Russia, has six goals in eight La Liga matches this season.

Subscribe to our new podcast, Heineken Rugby Weekly on The42, here: