Barcelona sports chief Txiki Begiristain says management is confident of Lionel Messi's long-term fitness.

Ahead of tonight's Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon, Begiristain said: "Barcelona can win without Messi.

"He's the best player in the world and it's obvious that it's better when he plays.

"We're confident he will play in 89 to 90 per cent of games this season."