Speaking on the club’s official ‘Barca TV’ Barcelona’s assistant coach, Tito Vilanova has not entirely ruled out Messi’s participation in tonight’s Club World Cup semi-final match against Mexico’s Atlante.

Tito, just like Pep Guardiola acknowledged that he would however opt not to risk the player if the situation doesn’t call for it.

“He can start from the bench, and if his participation is deemed necessary, it will have to be discussed.”

Nevertheless, he is satisfied of Messi’s quick recovery period saying, “We expected the injury would take a few more days (to heal) but in yesterday’s workout, he felt pretty good. We will monitor his progress to see if he is well enough.”