Champions League 2019-20: 4 players who impressed for Barcelona in their 2-1 win over Inter Milan

#1 Lionel Messi

FC Barcelona v FC Internazionale: Group F - UEFA Champions League

Ever since news of Lionel Messi's injury broke, Barcelona fans have been fervent in their prayers for the return of their captain and talisman.

In his absence, Barcelona have looked devoid of ideas and lacked inspiration on the field. And in Messi's return against Inter Milan, he showed why he remains the greatest player ever to don the red and blue colors.

This was only his second start in what has been an injury-plagued season. But despite showing signs of rust, the Rosario native still stole the show and dominated proceedings with his guile and talent.

He had four shots in the game, of which three were on target, while he also completed 10 dribbles and played six key passes. Messi's biggest contribution, however, came in the 84th minute when he laid on the assist for Suarez's winner.

The 32-year-old picked the ball just inside the Inter half with at least five opposition players ahead of him. In deja vu scenes from yesteryear, Messi embarked on a classic mazy run across the length of half the field, evading five challenges before laying the ball on a platter for his friend and teammate to put Barcelona ahead.

Now that Messi has once again underlined his usefulness to Barcelona, fans of the club would be hoping their number 10 can remain fit. The success of their team's campaign largely depends on his availability.