Barcelona midfielder Denis Suarez has revealed clubmateAndres Iniesta sent him a message of congratulations after their win over Sevilla on Sunday.
Iniesta, 32, recently suffered a knee injury and may not be back in action for Barcelona until the New Year, giving the likes of Suarez a chance to prove their worth at the club. The former Manchester City youngster certainly took his chance, delivering an assured performance as the Catalan club came from a goal down to beat Sevilla2-1.
Speaking to Sport, Suarez revealed Iniesta sent him a message after the game, supposedly congratulating the 22-year-old for his part in the win.
At the end of the match against Sevilla he sent a WhatsApp to congratulate me," Suarez revealed.
He said I had played very well and with a lot of personality. I replied that his message had made me very happy.�
How Denis Suárez has proved he can be the heir to Iniesta's throne - https://t.co/PQa8pQcDZ5
A sublime performance. 👑 pic.twitter.com/fDJlDx05Sf
Iniesta is widely regardedas one of the best midfielders in the modern game by football fans and players alike, and Suarez revealed he hopes he can one day play at a similar level to the Spain legend.
I want to earn a spot and be here many years ,� he continued. I strive to be a starter. I know I just arrived and I have to be patient but I try to take my chances.
I'm happy with my participation. The club do not give away anything. I always wants to play more but I have teammates at the maximum level - Iniesta is the best in the world in my place. I hope someday I can become like him.�
Suarez also came in for praise from Barca manager Luis Enrique, who praised the midfielder's effort and attitude.
"He is always ready and willing, despite only featuring for a few minutes here and there. This is this the kind of attitude we want from all of our players and I hope he carries on like that,"Enrique told Marca.
"He is a great example of professionalism."