Messi defended by Barcelona teammates

Lionel Messi’s Barcelona team-mates have rallied around the Argentinian after he was branded an “actor” by Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho following the Spanish champions’ 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho claimed the 18-year-old sensation’s play-acting led to the sending-off of full-back Asier Del Horno in Wednesday night’s Champions League last 16 first leg.