Barcelona coach Xavi is using Ousmane Dembele as an example for teammates.

While his contract continues to run down, Dembele has been outstanding for Barca and Xavi since the New Year.

El Chiringuito reports Xavi held squad talks on Tuesday, with the aim of lifting spirits ahead of their meeting with Real Sociedad.

Surprisingly, Xavi named Dembélé as an 'example of commitment' for the squad thanks to his good performance in recent games.

"Look at him, he doesn't even have a contract," said Xavi.

The coach also had a separate conversation with three players who have been struggling in recent games: Memphis Depay, Clément Lenglet and Frenkie de Jong.