Barca coach sees 'killer look' in Messi's eyes

"Sometimes you want things to be better than they are, but my feeling is that Leo has come back very quickly and he is in great physical shape and he has carried out three excellent training sessions with his team-mates," he added.

However, there was one factor that still worries the Barcelona coach: the fact Messi has not played a competitive game for almost two months.

"He is still lacking the rhythm of his companions, but he is in good shape and his return depends on how he feels," said Martino.

That almost certainly means Messi won't start against Elche, but he could form part of the squad and have some time as a second half substitute, otherwise he may have to wait until the midweek Copa del Rey tie at home to Getafe before making his comeback.