Messi boosts Barca in time for Cup clash

The Argentina forward, who was crowned FIFA World Player of the Year last month, missed Saturday's 1-1 La Liga draw at home to Villarreal after being granted an extra few days holiday over the winter break.

The La Liga leaders take on the 2007 Cup winners for the first of three clashes between the sides in 12 days. Sevilla, who have slipped to fifth in the standings, return to the Nou Camp after next week's second leg.

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