Luis Enrique backs his decision to bench Lionel Messi against Atletico Madrid

Messi scored his first La Liga goal of the season after he came on as a sub against Atletico Madrid

Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has explained about his decision to leave Lionel Messi on the bench during his side’s 2-1 victory against Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine did not start the game against Diego Simeone’s men but came on near the hour mark to score the winner to attain all three points in this vital encounter and keep the Blaugranas at the top of the table. Following the international break in the US, Messi did not train with the squad before the high profile encounter and was busy attending the birth of his second son on Friday night which is why it wasn’t unsual for him to feature in the starting XI.

And Enrique has stated that he spoke to his ace forward about his decision to bench him before the game as he felt the need to protect the 28-year-old and kep him in the best condition possible.

Talking to the reporters, Enrique said, "It is basic for us to have Leo in his best condition. I spoke with Leo today. We did not want to take risks, after his travels, it was a difficult situation.

"His state of fitness is key, for him to play the most minutes possible. We needed him in the second half, and he was able to do something important in the end. We have a deep squad, with lots of options."

Atletico creating few chances projected great team focus, says Enrique

In a game that was tight and tense, Atletico drew first blood in the early part of the second half through Fernando Torres whose placed effort saw Rojiblancos take a 1-0 lead at the Vincente Calderon. However, Neymar’s brilliantly executed free kick cancelled the hosts’ lead before Messi came on as a sub and guided his side to an important away victory against the league contenders.

"I believe the two teams wanted the win, no doubt," the former Roma boss added. "I believe we were at a very high level, very consistent. That Atletico created so few chances means we were very focused. We were good in both attack and defence. I am very happy. We were able to turn the scoreboard around. It is a great win."

"We know it is a difficult calendar, and we knew how important this game was, against a direct opponent [for the title]. But we have everything still to do," he concluded.

The last time Messi was left in the bench was against Barca’s 1-0 loss against Real Socieded in the previous campaign which led to major speculations of a rift between the player and the coach.

Barcelona have collected all three points from their opening three fixtures in the league as they sit on the top of the table two points ahead of Real Madrid. The Catalan outfit begin their new Champions League season on September 17 as they travel to the Stadio Olimpico to take on Italian giants AS Roma.