Barcelona forward Lionel Messi took to his official Facebook account to welcome Jonas Gutierrez back into football.

The Newcastle United midfielder made his first appearance since being diagnosed with testicular cancer last year in Wednesday's 1-0 defeat to Manchester United.

"How amazing it is to see you back on the pitch Jonas," posted Messi as he included a picture of his former Argentina teammate returning as a second-half substitute at St James' Park.

Speaking after the game, Gutierrez said that the reception afforded to him from both sets of fans was one that would never forget.