Barcelona star Neymar back in the fold after Olympics duty as Lionel Messi beats injury ahead of Alaves clash on Saturday

LIONEL MESSI looks set to defy his critics by lining up for Barcelona against Alaves this weekend.

The Argentine missed his country’s 2-2 draw against Venezuela over the international break with a groin injury and was criticised by some sections of the media in his homeland after returning to the Nou Camp for treatment.

But Messi appeared to be fighting fit in Barca training as Luis Enrique put his men through their paces, and will be hoping to keep his side’s 100 per cent start to the La Liga season going.

The current Ballon d’Or holder was snapped talking to attacking partners Luis Suarez and Neymar, with the Brazilian set to feature for the first time this season after representing his nation at the Olympics.

It's set to be a tough campaign as Barca look to complete a hat-trick of league titles, but the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Rafinha showed they’re feeling no pressure as they shared a joke on the pitch.

There was also a glimpse of new goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen in action, with the Dutchman joining from Ajax late in the transfer window.

He arrived as a replacement for Claudio Bravo, who has taken over from Joe Hart as Manchester City’s No.1.

But Marc-Andre ter Stegen will finally get the chance to cement his place as Barca’s go-to goalie after spending most of his time as the club’s Champions League shot-stopper.

The German showed off his reflexes in front of boss Enrique, who also has the likes of Andre Gomes and Samuel Umtiti at his disposal after a heavy summer of shopping.