Lionel Messi will remain Barcelona's spotkick taker, despite his clanger against Sevilla. The miss cost Barca two points and saw them surrender the Liga leadership to Levante.

"Messi will continue taking the penalties," insisted teammate Andres Iniesta. "He has the courage to keep taking them because only those who dare to fail will succeed."

Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes also said: "He's the best in the world and knows we are all by his side."

Seydou Keita added: "Messi is a great competitor, always wants to win, but these things happen."

While wing-back Adriano insisted: "Leo is the best in the world and will continue taking penalties.

"No one can doubt him after not scoring for two games. This is insane.

"He is calm, angry for not having scored the penalty, but calm and aware that there will be more opportunities."