The Argentine star's goal early in the second half proved the difference in an enthralling game, while the Andalucians will feel aggrieved they finished empty-handed

Lionel Messi marked his return from injury in style as his stunning volley sent Barcelona top of La Liga with a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Malaga on Saturday.

Messi missed Barca's 2-1 Copa del Rey win over Athletic Bilbao in midweek because of a hamstring problem, but was typically influential at La Rosaleda - earning all three points with a sumptuous finish from Adriano's cross.