Ernesto Valverde has heaped praise on 'difference-maker' Lionel Messi, admitting that Barcelona are fortunate to have him in their ranks.

The Argentina international took his goals tally for the season to 16 in 15 appearances on Saturday evening by opening the scoring against Athletic Bilbao, while also hitting the post.

Valverde was quick to hail Messi as the world's finest player after another majestic display from his little maestro at San Mames, five days on from coming second to Cristiano Ronaldo in the FIFA Best Men's Player of the Year category.

"Messi could have scored another goal if the post hadn't got in the way, but he's incredible," he told reporters. "He can make the difference at any moment. It was a spectacular goal. We're so lucky that the best player in the world plays for us."

Paulinho also registered late on in the Basque Country as Barcelona maintained their La Liga title charge with a 2-0 victory.