Martino hits out at Messi critics

The Barcelona boss believes the Argentina star
has been unfairly judged on his recent goal
record and defended his rotation policy at the
club
Barcelona boss Gerardo Martino has hit out at
critics of Lionel Messi's form despite the
Argentine only netting once in the month of
October.
Messi has 12 goals in just 13 games so far this
season, but his only strike in the past month
came in the Champions League draw with AC
Milan.
Although the Argentine has been sidelined for
much of the past three weeks with a thigh
problem, he has not been immune to criticism
from some quarters - something which
Martino believes to be unjust.
"If Messi doesn't score three goals in a game
people start to think there's a problem," he
told reporters.
"Injuries happen. To Messi, or anyone."
Neymar has been in strong form during
Messi's absence, contributing three goals and
three assists in October, and Martino is thrilled
to see the Brazilian beginning to adapt to life
in Catalunya.
"Neymar is very good, but also very intelligent
and very modest. That's why he's adapting
easier," he said.
Barcelona emerged unbeaten in all
competitions in October and secured a 2-1 win
in the first Clasico of the season, but Martino
admits his side have not been at their
strongest during their impressive run -
although he defended his persistent rotation
policy.
"If you rotate, you always take a risk. When we
lose, there will be criticism," said the
Argentine. "But I continue to think it's the best
thing to do.
"We don't like it that we don't control some
games, but when it happens, we always come
out of it as the best."