FC Barcelona: Top 5 performers in Lionel Messi's absence

#2. Jordi Alba

Alba was a constant threat to opposing defences on the left flank

Such has been the performances of Spanish International Jordi Alba in recent weeks that many have continuously urged Spanish manager Luis Enrique to recall the Barcelona full-back into the La Roja team ahead of the upcoming International Break.

Jordi Alba is arguably the most impressive left-back in Europe at the moment and his pure class and incredible talent have been on a display during the few matches in which Barcelona have counted on him to produce magic in Messi's absence.

Alba has been quite unstoppable, tormenting opposition defences with his incredible pace, intelligent runs, decent link-up, and immense creativity as well as helping to produce rigidity at the back and neutralising opposition advancements, especially during counter-attacks.

In the absence of Messi, the Spanish player acted as the chief creator to the Barcelona attackers, creating decent chances for the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Luis Suarez to capitalise on while his great goal against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League further proves how influential he has been in recent weeks.