Messi's

When it comes to the 'best player in the world', he's got some way to go to be Lionel Messi's standard.

Peter Crouch says England can stop Wales if they stop Gareth Bale 2011

Perhaps it's for the best Messi's not there, given his famous aversion to cold nights in places.

Copa América 2011: Peru v Uruguay – as it happened | Jacob Steinberg 2011

And because they're on the same wavelength and complement each other well, it has a multiplier effect both on Messi's numbers and Barcelona's fortunes.

Why Lionel Messi Is The Great One Gabriele Marcotti 2011

In that way, he's also like Gretzky, who had the luxury of sharing time on the ice with hockey's equivalents of Messi's supporting cast: Jari Kurri , Glenn Anderson and Mark Messier .

Why Lionel Messi Is The Great One Gabriele Marcotti 2011

Indeed, Messi's ability to sail through crowded penalty areas with the ball seemingly super-glued to his foot is the stuff of YouTube highlight reels.

Why Lionel Messi Is The Great One Gabriele Marcotti 2011

Because of Messi's control, quickness and agility, he needs less room than others.

Why Lionel Messi Is The Great One Gabriele Marcotti 2011

He is remembering Arsenal's two Champions League fixtures this season against Barcelona, which brought him a ton of pain as well as Lionel Messi's shirt.

Jack Wilshere says Manchester United must get in faces of Barcelona | Paul Hayward 2011

I swapped with Xavi and then I asked Cesc Fábregas to get me Messi's, Wilshere recalls.

Jack Wilshere says Manchester United must get in faces of Barcelona | Paul Hayward 2011

Messi's goal in first-half stoppage time in Catalonia was an act of sorcery.

Jack Wilshere says Manchester United must get in faces of Barcelona | Paul Hayward 2011

Spain's Liga is universally regarded as one of the top two leagues in the world, and all but three of Messi's games this season have been either in the league, the Champions League or against top-flight clubs in the Spanish Cup.

Why Lionel Messi Is The Great One Gabriele Marcotti 2011