Lionel Messi is not the sort of player to cheat on the pitch, according to his former Barcelona team-mate Xavi.
Messi was accused of play-acting after Filipe Luis was sent off in Barcelona's win over Atletico Madrid back in January, with the Brazilian defender claiming after that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner gets special treatment from referees.
However, Xavi has defended Messi and is adamant the Argentinian's behaviour on the pitch is exemplary.
"Messi is a good person," Xavi told beIN SPORTS. "He is always nice, he is honest and he does not cheat.
'Real played like a small team in Clasico'
"He has never disrespected anyone on the pitch. His behaviour is exemplary.
"He is a humble guy, who is very professional and hates to lose.
"He is the best player in the world in all aspects. I told him to get more involved and he now does it naturally.
"He is addicted to the ball. He is sad when he cannot play."
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- Goal