With Argentina legend Diego Maradona recently slamming Lionel Messi’s leadership qualities, a former teammate of the superstar has now claimed the FC Barcelona man does not need to speak to show how he is feeling.
Maradona publicly criticised Messi’s lack of captaincy skills this past weekend, but former Barca player and current director of football, Eric Abidal, has leaped to the defence of the 31-year-old, whom he says wears his heart on his sleeve.
“He’s an example as a captain. Not just talent-wise, also as a person,” Abidal told the Blaugrana’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 has scored 11 goals and assisted a further five strikes in 11 matches for Barca so far this season.